PUP COC SC launches first-ever Mx. COC 2023, calls for LGBTQIA+ rights

Aiming to amplify the LGBTQIA+ advocacies, the PUP College of Communication Student Council (SC) initiated the first-ever “Mx. COC 2023: KalayaangAlay ngKasarian” pageant at Tanghalang PUP on June 30, 2023.

Among the pile of ten colorful individuals, Harley Palubon from BA Advertising and Public Relations (BAPR) was crowned

Palubon advocates for #YourClosetIsASafeSpaceToo, which highlights the importance of equal LGBTQIA+ representation amid societal pressure.

“I realized that what the LGBTQIA+ [community] need [are] not [just] representation, not just to be seen or to be heard, but to be represented and included in each of the sectors of the society,” Palubon expressed in his winning statement.

Michaela Baldoza of BA Communication Research (BACR) placed first runnerup, and bagged the People’s Choice Award, Mx. Creative Wear, and Best Formal Wear.

Baldoza supports the creation of safe spaces for an inclusive and progressive community and aspires to become a transformative leader in society.

Second runner-up Mark Christian Pagtalunan from BA Broadcasting (BABr) carries “Bakla ka, hindi bakla lang” advocacy, encouraging everyone “to be good and beautiful” despite the belittlement and prejudices among the colorful community.

Meanwhile, Jerico ‘Eula Hoops’ Rosales and Kyla Vivero secured two spots in the final Top 5, with Rosales winning

‘MAKIBEKI,‘WAGMASHOKOT!’

Mx. Photogenic and finalist Lyric Alolor receiving Mx. Congeniality.

Production Collective: “Makibeki,huwag mashokot!”

PUP COC SC held a lightning rally during the pageant, calling for the passage of the two-decade-long Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression (SOGIE) Equality Bill and the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community.

“Isa lang ang panawagan ng sambayanang Pilipino at ng sangkabaklaan, ang kailangan namin, ipasa niyo ang SOGIE Equality Bill. Kailangan namin ng tunay na pagkilala sa aming karapatan at pagkakakilanlan,” PUP COC SC President Ronjay Mendiola asserted.

Previously, online and onground campaigns were held to emphasize gender equality, inclusivity, and diversity.