Why 3 LGBTQ+ Members Took Cebu’s Free Circumcision Offer

On May 30, 2025, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, saw a unique twist in its annual “Libreng Tuli” (Free Circumcision) campaign: three proud members of the local LGBTQ+ community, known publicly only as Layla, 22; Lesley, 26; and Hanabi, 35, stepped forward, took up the city’s offer, and each went home P10,000 richer. Their bold move did more than just challenge preconceived notions about who gets circumcised in the Philippines; it sparked fresh conversations about gender, health, and inclusivity in a tradition often tied to masculinity and boyhood rites of passage.
Read the full story here.

Breaking barriers in a tradition-bound society

Circumcision, tuli, as it’s known locally, is a near-universal ritual among Filipino males, often seen as a marker of maturity and manhood. But for Layla, Lesley, and Hanabi, all residents of Sudtunggan, Basak, joining the free event wasn’t about affirming old gender roles. Instead, it was an act of personal agency, defiance, and a little bit of fun. Mayor Junard Chan, delighted by their participation, emphasized their courage: “All of them received P10,000 as an incentive for their bravery to push through their circumcision despite claims that it was painful.”
Check the mayor’s full statement and local reactions here.

Challenging norms, sparking dialogue

The trio’s decision sends ripples through a community where expectations of gender are still rigid. Their participation was met with both applause and curiosity, as Mayor Chan publicly congratulated them and used the moment to dispel myths: “They proved that circumcision was not a painful and hard medical procedure.” By stepping into a space usually reserved for cisgender boys and men, these three LGBTQ+ members helped start a conversation about who gets to participate in traditions, and why those spaces need to be more inclusive.

More than the money: Health and community ties

Yes, the P10,000 incentive was a strong motivator, and in today’s economy, who can blame them? But beyond the cash, the city government pointed to the medical benefits: lower risks of urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted infections, and even penile cancer were touted as key reasons to get circumcised. The event was also a chance for the local government to reach wider audiences, including marginalized communities, through practical health promotion.

Quick Take: A sign of progress

On the surface, it might look like just another city health drive. But Layla, Lesley, and Hanabi’s participation is a cheeky, powerful reminder: Filipino LGBT+ folks are everywhere, and given the chance, they can lead the way in breaking down barriers, one tradition at a time. Their story underlines how inclusivity, health, and a little bit of local humor can come together in unexpectedly powerful ways.

What’s your take on Cebu’s “tuli” challenge? Share your thoughts in the comments below!