Introduction: Language Shapes How We See Ourselves
The Philippines is rich in culture — and that includes its language around gender and sexuality. But for many, terms like bakla, tomboy, trans, and bading are often misunderstood or used interchangeably. So, what do they really mean? And how do they shape the identities of transgender women in the Philippines?
Let’s explore the words, the history, and the impact they have on lives.
1. Bakla: More Than Just “Gay”
In Filipino culture, the term bakla is widely used, but its meaning is complex.
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Bakla typically refers to a person assigned male at birth (AMAB) who is effeminate or attracted to men.
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It’s often used as a catch-all term for gay men, feminine-presenting people, or even transgender women — especially in everyday conversations.
🟡 Issue: Many trans women are called “bakla”, even if they don’t identify as such.
“I’m not bakla — I’m a woman. Just because I’m trans doesn’t mean I’m gay,” says Jamie, a 22-year-old trans student from Quezon City.
2. Tomboy: Masculine Women, But Not Always Lesbian
Tomboy in the Philippines refers to masculine-presenting women, often those who are attracted to other women. But it’s not a perfect translation for “lesbian.”
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Some tomboys identify as butch lesbians, others might be non-binary or trans men.
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It’s more about appearance and behavior than sexual identity in local culture.
3. Transgender: A More Specific Identity
In recent years, more Filipinos have begun using the word transgender to describe people whose gender identity doesn’t match the sex they were assigned at birth.
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Transgender women are AMAB but identify and live as women.
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Not all transgender people undergo surgery or hormone therapy — and that’s okay!
🟢 The term transgender is helping many Filipinas clarify their identity, separate from stereotypes, and find global language that affirms who they are.
4. Bading, Silahis, and Other Local Terms
Filipino slang around gender and sexuality is colorful, sometimes playful, but often problematic.
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Bading is another term for gay or effeminate AMAB individuals — similar to bakla, but often used informally or even insultingly.
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Silahis is an outdated term used to describe bisexuals, but it’s fallen out of favor due to its association with confusion or deceit.
These terms can carry stigma, especially when used as jokes or insults.
5. Language = Power
Why does all this matter?
Because words shape how we’re seen — and how we see ourselves. For many trans women, being mislabelled as bakla or bading feels like erasure.
“I had to teach my own family the difference,” says Mela, a trans advocate. “They thought bakla and trans were the same. Now they call me their daughter.”
As the language evolves, so does understanding. And with understanding comes acceptance.
Quick Guide: Common LGBTQ+ Terms in Filipino Culture
| Term | Common Use | More Accurate Description |
|---|---|---|
| Bakla | Gay, feminine AMAB | Can include trans women, but not always |
| Tomboy | Masculine AFAB | Can be lesbian, non-binary, or trans man |
| Transgender | Gender identity | Not tied to looks or surgery |
| Bading | Informal “gay” | Often used in a teasing or negative way |
| Silahis | Bisexual (outdated) | Better to use “bi” or “pan” now |
