Geena Rocero’s transcendent book ‘Horse Barbie’ inspires authenticity and empowerment

by MoMAr g. VisAyA / AJPress

GEENA rocero, the multi-talented and award-winning producer, director, model, public speaker, and trans rights advocate has added the title of book author to her impressive list of accomplishments.

In this extraordinary exploration of self-discovery, authenticity, and ancestral spirit, rocero unleashed her literary masterpiece called “Horse Barbie,” and she fearlessly ignites a revolution of acceptance and empowerment, inspiring not only the trans community but also society at large to challenge the status quo and embrace the beauty of diversity.

Horse Barbie” represents a culmination of rocero’s personal experiences and artistic vision.

In discussing her new book, she revealed, “this project is a deeply intimate journey of self-discovery and acceptance. It embodies the struggle, the resilience, and the beauty of being true to oneself.”

In an interview with the Asian Journal, rocero opened up about the significance of the book’s title and how it became a symbol of empowerment. reflecting on her experiences in transmedia pageants during her teenage years, rocero shares the hurtful comments she received about her appearance.

“I was 15 years old and still in high school when I started joining trans beauty pageants. I reached the top so quick, I became the most famous and most prominent and I won every single trans pageant that we have in the Philippines,” she recalled. so you could imagine the other trans pageant contestants and their clans and fans saying that over the course of two years, rocero dedicated herself to writing every day, especially during the challenging times of the pandemic, the rise of anti-Asian hate, and the global reckoning on racial issues. through her book, she was able to delve into deeper desires and explore the world from a unique perspective. this is a story of a filipino American, a young trans woman her experiences may not resonate directly but it’s a human story, a unique journey of finding your truth, sticking to your truth,” she shared. “You know, challenging these notions of assimilation, while at the same time not losing yourself.” rocero’s book has already sparked conversations and garnered widespread attention.

I look like a horse because of my protruding profile, my long neck, and my dark skin and my weight.” the negative remarks deeply affected her, with people whispering and gossiping about her backstage. however, a turning point occurred when her trans mom tiger Lily noticed rocero’s elegance on stage and off, particularly when she was wearing her iconic red evening gown and exclaimed that rocero resembled a “Horse Barbie.” from that point forward, the label became a source of strength, a moniker she embraced as part of her identity, transforming from an insult into a spirit and a symbol of resilience.

As rocero embarked on her journey to New York City, she carried the spirit of “Horse Barbie” with her, turning it into a powerful force that empowered her to embrace her uniqueness. the memoir “Horse Barbie” is not just a title; it represents rocero’s journey of reclaiming her identity and finding empowerment in the face of adversity. It is a testament to her resilience and serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges.

As a now-published author, she expressed her desire to continue directing and further expand her creative endeavors. she envisions writing more while collaborating with inspiring individuals on her list, such as Clair Denis, Pedro Almodovar, and ryan murphy. she believes readers will be able to find something in her story that would resonate with them.

“Packed with grit, ferocity, and grace, Geena rocero’s story proves that embracing who you are—in all your complexity, and in a world that often seems to think you’re simply not allowed—is a truly revolutionary act,” said actor Gabrielle UnionWade. filipino-American Jia tolentino, the author of trick mirror, described the book as “Vivid, hilarious, exhilarating... thrillingly perceptive and honest” while ronan farrow, journalist and author of the Pulitzer Prize–winning Catch and Kill said, the book is “A propulsive read, animated by the author’s honesty, wit, and indomitable spirit of selfacceptance.” the book stands as a testament to rocero’s artistic brilliance and her unwavering commitment to authenticity and empowerment. through the pages of her book, she invites readers on a transformative journey, encouraging them to embrace their true selves and challenge societal norms. one of the key messages conveyed throughout “Horse Barbie” is the importance of self-acceptance and self-love. rocero opens up about her journey towards embracing her identity and the struggles she faced along the way. rocero’s book also delves into the notion of ancestral spirit of the babaylan and how cultural heritage can inform one’s understanding of self. As a filipina, she draws upon her rich cultural background to explore the interconnectedness between her transgender identity and her heritage.

Horse Barbie” delves into the intersectionality of identity, exploring themes of race, gender, and culture. Drawing from her own experiences as a filipina trans woman, rocero skillfully weaves together narratives that shed light on the complexities of navigating multiple facets of identity. By centering her own story and those of other marginalized communities, rocero aims to create a more inclusive dialogue that challenges the traditional understanding of gender and beauty.

“I had to learn to love myself unconditionally and dismantle the internalized transphobia that society had ingrained in me,” she shared. By sharing her vulnerabilities and triumphs, rocero hopes to inspire readers to embark on their journeys of self-discovery and embrace their unique identities.

“my cultural roots have

by HAnnAH MAllorcA Inquirer.net

“WhAt’s up, madlang Kapuso?”

ABs-CBN’s noontime show “It’s showtime” formally signed a contract with GmA Network’s GtV on Wednesday, June 28, with mainstay host Vice Ganda describing the contract signing as a historic event that made him hopeful about the show’s future. the executives of the Kapamilya and Kapuso networks and the show’s hosts came together to formalize “It’s showtime’s” transfer to GtV.

Among the “It’s showtime” hosts present at the event were Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Kim Chiu, Jhong hilario, ogie Alcasid, Amy Perez, Jugs Jugueta, teddy Corpuz, ryan Bang, Jackie Gonzaga and Ion Perez, as shown on GtV’s twitter page. they were also joined by hosts robi Domingo and Iya Villania.

During the event, ABs-CBN’s Ceo Carlo Katigbak expressed his gratitude to the Kapuso network for welcoming the noontime show, saying he and GmA films Inc. president Annette Gozon Valdes came to a decision about the show’s move “in less than two weeks.” marami nang napagdaanan ang ating Kapamilya sa ‘It’s showtime.’ Nagpapasalamat din kami sa ‘It’s showtime’ hosts and ‘It’s showtime’ family dahil hindi kayo bumitaw sa pagbibigay ng saya at serbisyo,” Katigbak added.

(“it’s Showtime” has been through a lot. i’m thankful to the “it’s Showtime” hosts and family because you didn’t give up in bringing joy and service.) meanwhile, GmA Network chairman and Ceo felipe Gozon declared that the contract signing has put an end to the supposed network wars.

“Pwede na natin sabihin ngayon, without any fear of contradiction, na yung competition, yung tinatawag ng media practitioners na tV war, is finally over. Gusto kong sabihin sa pagkakataong ito na malugod na naming tinatanggap ang popular program na ‘It’s showtime’ at ang maraming talents na bumubuo nito,” he said. on the other hand, Vice Ganda said in a heartfelt speech that despite “It’s showtime” being bumped off its noontime slot from tV5, he remained “optimistic” about the possibilities that await the show.

(We can finally say, without any fear of contradiction, that the competition or what media practitioners refer to as TV war is finally over. i just want to take the opportunity to say that we wholeheartedly accept the popular program “it’s Showtime” and its talents.)

“hindi ako masyadong naaligaga. hindi ako masyadong natakot kasi punong-puno ako ng pag-asa. At ‘yung pag-asa naming lahat ang nagbitbit sa’min dito para magkita kayong lahat,” he said. “Itong pangyayaring ito ay sadyang Pinoy na Pinoy, Pilipinong Pilipino. Ang pamilya ng ‘It’s showtime’ ay kumakatawan sa pamilyang Pilipino na lahat ng kaganapan sa buhay ay dinanas, lahat ng bagyo ay hinarap, pero patuloy pa ring tumatayo dahil sa pagmamahal.”

(i didn’t quite panic. i didn’t get too scared because i was full of hope. And hope is what brought us here to be with you all. This event feels very Filipino because it’s Showtime” is a symbol of what Filipino families go through, especially the toughest storms, but it continues to remain strong because of love.) the “Praybeyt Benjamin” star then pointed out that the contract event is akin to a family’s victory, while Curtis, hilario, Alcasid, and played a significant role in shaping my identity and giving me the strength to embrace who I am,” she explained, through Horse Barbie,” she aims to ignite conversations about the diversity of transgender experiences and how culture can provide a source of empowerment. the release of “Horse Barbie” marks a significant milestone in rocero’s journey as an artist and activist. By sharing her personal story and the stories of others, she continues to break down barriers and challenge societal norms. through her unwavering commitment to authenticity and representation, rocero is leaving an indelible mark on the art world and beyond. rocero has embarked on a nationwide tour to engage with readers and spark meaningful conversations. through book signings, panel discussions, and public appearances, she aims to foster a sense of community and provide a platform for dialogue and reflection.

“I want to create spaces where individuals can share their stories and feel seen and heard,” she emphasized. By connecting with audiences directly, rocero hopes to create a ripple effect of acceptance and empowerment that extends far beyond the pages of her book.

In the end, “Horse Barbie” is more than just a book; it is a transformative journey that challenges societal norms, celebrates diversity, and empowers individuals to embrace their authentic selves. through her artistry, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to the transgender community, rocero continues to push boundaries and create spaces for meaningful conversations. As “Horse Barbie” finds its way into the hands of readers, it has the potential to ignite a movement of acceptance, empathy, and social change.

Chiu were noticeably emotional at the event.

“masaya ako, sobra kong saya. hindi ko makita kung saan ito mapupunta, or saan ito dadalhin ang programa, kung anong kinahihinatnan ng araw na ‘to. hindi ko alam, pero alam ko na ang pangyayaring ito ay magiging simula ng maraming napakagandang pangyayari. I’m just very hopeful, grateful and excited,” Vice Ganda added.

(i’m happy, i’m very happy. i don’t know where this will take the program, or what will happen after this day. But i know that this is a start of beautiful things. i’m just very hopeful, grateful and excited.) the contract signing comes a week after ABs-CBN announced that its flagship noontime show would shift to GtV, also known as Good television, following the expiry of its contract from tV5. “It’s showtime” will air on GtV, Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya online Live, iWanttfC and tfC beginning July 1.