University of the Philippines Diliman - UPD Speciality : English Language & Literature
programme: Creative Writing and Journalism

As a Filipino living in a predominantly Catholic country, I never had the opportunity to express myself as a trans woman in the schools I attended. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I was constantly teased, hurt, and not given the recognition I deserved. That’s why I dreamed that one day, I would be able to attend a university that is open to students of any gender identity. Fortunately, the University of the Philippines-Diliman accepted me under the Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing program. Here, I was able to freely express myself as a trans woman without judgment from anyone. They allowed me to write literature, news, and editorials based on my experiences as a trans woman. In UP-Diliman, there is a strong emphasis on recognizing and respecting the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression (SOGIE) of every student. There is a dedicated restroom for LGBTQIA+ individuals, including those with disabilities. There is also an organization called “Bahaghari” that advocates for those who fall victim to violence due to their SOGIE. UP-Diliman recognizes you for who you are. You don’t need to change for the school, and the university will not change you. Therefore, it is only right to recognize UP-Diliman as the best university in the Philippines because, along with its name, it embodies the inclusivity that every institution in the country should possess. Among these, UP-Diliman accepted me for a reason. As a writer, I will continue to advocate, through my writing, for the rights of every trans woman in the spaces of school, society, home, and work. I will not give up until our community achieves the space that rightfully belongs to us.