Bohol’s First Ever LGBTIQ+ Art Exhibit: ‘Pabuhagay’ Spotlights Visayan Talent

If you thought Bohol was all about tarsiers and chocolate hills, darling, brace yourself, “Pabuhagay” just turned the Central Visayas art scene upside down! On June 23, 2025, Bohol lit up the rainbow runway with its first ever LGBTIQ+ art exhibit, making history in the heart of Tagbilaran. The name? “Pabuhagay”, a Visayan word for “unfurling”, and honey, it’s serving visibility, artistry, and pure Pinoy queer magic.

Beyond Pride: A Revolution in Colors

Hosted at Alta Citta Mall and running through the latter half of June, “Pabuhagay” is a courageous leap for Bohol’s cultural scene. Organized during Pride Month, the exhibit spotlights 18 fearless LGBTQ+ Boholano artists, each one painting their truths on canvases, installations, and more. Think Marvin Ablao’s installations exploring personal space and harassment, and Yoyo Cabahug’s raw, anatomy-inspired art, each piece a celebration of authenticity and an invitation to deep conversation. Sashay, don’t just walk, through this show! For more context on the dazzling roster and how the province made waves with this event, check out this coverage on Philippine LGBTIQ+ milestones.

Art with a Cause: Pride and Protest Intertwined

What makes “Pabuhagay” fierce isn’t just the art, it’s the conviction behind it. In a society where heteronormative norms often reign, these artists are not just showcasing masterpieces; they’re demanding space, respect, and equality. The exhibit dives into themes of love, chosen family, coming out, and resilience, all while weaving in the Visayan spirit. Each brushstroke and sculpted line tells a story: of fighting invisibility, of reclaiming narratives, and of holding space for every bakla, trans, bading, and queer soul in Bohol. For a visual taste of the opening, don’t miss the behind-the-scenes snaps shared by local creatives at this lively Instagram gallery.

Representation, Celebration, and New Traditions

Why is “Pabuhagay” a cultural milestone? For the first time, local government has openly supported a Pride event, setting a bold example in Central Visayas. The exhibit features an eclectic mix of media, from 3D installations to paintings, all crafted by artists whose work reflects the pain and beauty of being queer in the provinces. The organizers also held SOGIE and art talks, sparking dialogue and breaking stereotypes one conversation at a time. Bohol isn’t just catching up, it’s strutting forward, sequined heels and all! Read more about the impact and participating artists at The Bohol Times’ feature on the Pride Exhibit.

“Pabuhagay” is more than an exhibit, it’s a coming out for Bohol’s queer artists, a love letter to the Visayan LGBT+ community, and a creative protest waving the Pride flag high.

Have your own Prideful thoughts to share, or spotted more Pinoy queer brilliance? Drop your comments below, because in Bohol, the art (and the conversation) is just getting started!