∘⋆₊⟡𓈒 welcome to allyship 101 𓈒⟡₊⋆∘

This project is the final requirement of Psych 103 students under Sir James Montilla Doble. It focuses on the urgent and often overlooked issue of healthcare access for transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) individuals in the Philippines, particularly through the lens of Filipino family dynamics. In a country where the family is often seen as the primary source of emotional and financial support, their role can either open doors to essential care or become a barrier to it.

We titled our video series Allyship 101 to reflect its goal: providing Filipino families with the tools, knowledge, and empathy needed to support their TGNC loved ones, especially in navigating the healthcare system. Despite being an increasingly visible part of society, TGNC Filipinos still face major challenges, including a lack of trained healthcare providers, discriminatory practices, and limited access to gender-affirming treatments such as hormone therapy and psychological support (De Torres & Pacquiao, 2024; Abesamis, 2022).

Cultural terms like bakla and tomboy, commonly used in the Philippines, often conflate gender identity and sexual orientation, contributing to widespread misunderstandings. Combined with the absence of national anti-discrimination protections and the heavy influence of religious norms, many TGNC individuals are left without affirming care or familial support (Libiran et al., 2024; Abesamis, 2022). The healthcare system, particularly outside urban centers, remains largely unprepared to meet their specific needs (Renner et al., 2021).

Yet, this challenge also presents an opportunity. Families, when informed and empowered, can become the strongest advocates and allies for TGNC members. Research shows that family acceptance significantly improves mental health, healthcare engagement, and overall quality of life for queer individuals (Desales et al., 2024; Austria & Gines, 2022).

Allyship 101 is our effort to ignite this transformation. Through a five-part video series, we offer accessible, culturally grounded information on gender-affirmative care and family allyship. Topics range from healthcare barriers to practical ways families can show up for their TGNC members in clinical and everyday settings.

Now that we’ve set the context, we invite you to join us in reimagining what support can look like!

meet the team •ᴗ•  

Psych 103 Final Output | AY 2024 - 2025 2nd Semester