The winner of the first TransMillion, an empowering contest dedicated to supporting the transman community, will receive up to P1 million worth of surgical procedures to help in their transition journey.

This was announced by Dr. John Paul C. Pareja, CEO/medical director, The SB Clinic, a board-certified cosmetic surgeon and founder of The SB Clinic and Spark Industries.

"TransMillion will provide the winner with access to a comprehensive suite of medical services, including consultations, surgeries, and post-procedure care all designed to ensure a safe and informed path toward a successful transition," said Dr. John during a press conference about the contest held in Quezon City on Feb. 20. 

The Spalding University describes a transgender man or transman as someone who was assigned female at birth and identifies as a man.

Six contestants are competing for the title of TransMillion. The grand finals will be held at Lust Night Club in Quezon City on March 7.

"Behind every binder lies a story — of courage, struggle, and the relentless pursuit of living authentically. These six incredible individuals have faced challenges that would test anyone’s spirit, yet they continue to rise, proving that resilience knows no bounds," the doctor said.

Collaborating with Dr. John on this project is  Mr. Aian Lazaro, a transman and a social media influencer. They aim to raise awareness about the importance of a medically guided and well-supported transition for the transman community.

Aian said the contest hopes to educate and empower the transmen community with knowledge and resources, promote awareness about the importance of expert guidance and safety during transitioning, and provide life-changing opportunities.

Dr. John embarked on his medical career in 2016, driven by a deep passion for healthcare and a desire to make a difference in people’s lives. 

Over the years, he observed a significant rise in the number of individuals expressing interest in transitioning to become transmen. 

This growing trend sparked his curiosity and commitment to understanding the unique challenges and needs faced by this community, prompting him to further educate himself on gender identity and the medical complexities involved in gender transition.

"With how things are going right now, marami siya ngayon. Right now, we're doing one case a week. Unlike before, six cases in one year na yun," he said. "These days mga two to three times a week meron naka-book. Mas marami na ang nagiging aware and marami ng patients who are giving their testaments on the results and transition."

Aian expressed that he still feels sad when people refer to him as "madam."

"May anak kasi ako eh. So naguguluhan ako yung anak ko. Pero hindi naman ako nagagalit sa tumawag sa akin na madam kasi hindi naman niya alam. So I inform the person. I tend to be friendly because it's not their fault. (I have a child. So my child is confused. But I'm not angry with the person who called me madam because he doesn't know. So I inform the person. I tend to be friendly because it's not their fault)," he added.

Aian believes that he was born male trapped in a woman's body. His top surgery was successfully done by Dr. John. However, the In vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure was done in Cambodia. "Mura sa Cambodia. Inabot ako ng mga P800K sa gastos. (It's less expensive Cambodia. It cost me about P800K)

Dr. John said that it takes one year to consider a transition successful. "If that would make the person happy, then go for it. But let's begin with consultation and debriefing before the medical procedure. Family support is vital in this journey."