Monthly Archives: March 2009

Bebe Gandanghari: The New Role Model of Gay Men


When Rustom Padilla bravely admitted on national television (via the Pinoy Big Brother celebrity edition) that he is indeed gay, the whole world changed for the Padilla family. Even his brother Robin went to the Big Brother studio and attempted to make a scene.

But hey, who can deny the fact that Rustom has finally come to himself and was able to admit his sexuality? Anyway, a lot of things have happened since then. But not as dramatic as what happened early this year.

I saw on the news that Rustom went to the United States, in New York specifically, for some modeling lessons, or something. When he came back, he looked like he stepped out of the pages of Vogue. On TV Patrol, it was reported that he made such an arrival at the International Airport that the press and the people were starry eyed. Tall and statuesque and in red suit, Rustom caught the eye of everyone in his all red leather outfit.

But Rustom did not come back as Rustom Padilla–he came back a sophisticated and glamorous (I won’t say woman) Bebe Gandanghari.

Lately, when I go to the malls, I see gay men parading in really fashionable outfits. Whereas before, yeah, I see their futile attempts at dressing like women, now they have more taste in mixing and matching their outfits. Well, I guess I can say that Bebe Gandanghari has had a huge influence on them.

As for me, here I am a woman who doesn’t mind her looks and with short hair, whereas gay man are strutting like supermodels in the mall. What an irony of life!

I am not judging them. I respect their choices. It is not for me to judge. But I have to admit, they have a better taste in fashion than me. And boy, well, they look good in those clothes.

As for Bebe, he is now enjoying his new career as a fashion model. He has had several pictorials already since he got back to the Philippines. He is just starting his career as a new person. The old has gone, the new has finally arrived.

Pops Fernandez and Jomari Yllana Call it Quits


Philippine Concert Queen Pops Fernandez and former Gwapings member Jomari Yllana has finally called it quits after several years of dating. As in hiwalay na sila. Pops is the former wife of balladeer Martin Nievera. It was confirmed on the showbiz talk show, The Buzz, the couple’s close friend Ruffa Gutierrez.

Pops and Jomari have not yet commented on the issue, but it seems that the rumor is true. Jomari is neither confirming nor denying it, probably wishing to patch things up?

Oh well, I never really thought that their relationship was for keeps. How about you?

Goodbye, FrancisM

photo credit: wikipedia

Francis Magalona–whom Filipinos loved and known as either FrancisM, Master Rapper, and The Man, succumbed to the deadly blood cancer known as acute myelogenous leukemia today, March 6, 2009 at around 12:00 noon at the Pasig Medical City. His remains now lie in state at the La Funeraria Paz in Quezon City, Philippines. He was 44 years old.

FrancisM is considered as one of the most idolized rappers in this country, having continued his career for a couple of decades already. His music was iconic, and was followed by the youth of this country for several age groups already. His rap songs may be considered classic. He was also one of the first Filipino MTV VJs.

He has this clothing line called FrancisM Clothing Co., which are mostly patriotic t-shirts that have been well-accepted by Filipinos worldwide. Incidentally, I came across another T-shirts printing company that utilizes different printing techniques from Australia. Customyourshirt.com also accepts rush jobs and even small orders, especially for those who have made their own designs.

Anyway, despite the efforts and many prayers of people, I guess it is just time for FrancisM to go. He will be sorely missed not just by the entertainment industry, but by the millions of people he had inspired, including aspiring musicians.

Good bye Francis M. May your soul rest in peace. And may the good Lord be with your family in this sorrowful time.