Celebrating Diversity: Queer Filipino Komiks and Zines Shine at Komiket Pride

Kumusta, mga kaibigan! This June, Komiket Pride took center stage, highlighting the active and creative world of queer Filipino komiks and zines. Since its inception in 2023, this event has significantly uplifted the voices and stories of the LGBTIQ+ community, providing a platform that the mainstream often overlooks.

An Abundance of Queer Artistic Expression

Over two weekends, from June 6-8 at Ayala Malls the 30th in Pasig and June 13-15 at Ayala Malls Market! Market! in Taguig, more than 80 talented queer artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs gathered to celebrate and showcase their work. Komiket, a leading force in the Filipino komiks scene, ensured that LGBTIQ+ narratives were front and center, offering an array of prints, stickers, jewelry, keychains, tote bags, t-shirts, and fresh komiks. Artisans like Cinnamyon_Glaze, Albert Raqueño, Kulas, TITAPADTHA, and Nonadraws wowed attendees with their on-the-spot sketches, drawing enthusiastic crowds eager to engage with their unique creations.

A Rich and Engaging Pride Program

Beyond the lively market, the event was packed with enriching activities. The atmosphere was set by opening affirmations from Dakila Artist Collective and Metro Manila Pride. The program featured insightful panels, such as Dr. Khursten Santos discussing the evolution of queer romance, HIV awareness sessions by Courage Care, and body positivity talks from the Philippine Bear Community. Transmasculine PH provided essential personal safety tips. Enthralling live readings from Gigil: A Sapphic Anthology, Ang Klasmeyt Kong Krosswise, and Alapaap Boys’ Love series captivated the audience. The talent was on full display with drag performances by Cleo De Nile and Andy Crocker, accompanied by music from Yago Yanong. Notable launches included Rainbow Pages’ Memoire En Photos and Nashenzo’s Bisaya BL series, A Couple.

Empowering Queer Entrepreneurs

This year’s event also amplified the entrepreneurial spirit within the queer community by collaborating with initiatives like Qwarta Merkado and Pride Expo. According to Philstar Life, Komiket Pride offered a platform for over 150 LGBTQ+ creators, uniting art and entrepreneurship. In a society where discrimination is still present, such gatherings offer visibility, promote connections, and create meaningful economic opportunities. Supporting these creators is a step towards a more inclusive and lively Filipino creative environment.

This is Migs signing off, thrilled to witness our stories come alive in every stroke of ink and splash of color. Until the next gathering, mga ka-community!