By: Faith Dionisio, Psychology and Behavioral Science Society

Last June 27, 2024, the Psych-BeS Society, in partnership with Sumikom and the Guidance Counseling Office, conducted its first-ever Pride Seminar entitled, “Beyond the DSM: Depathologization of LGBTQIA+ Experiences”.

In this talk, Mr. Junix Jerald Delos Santos, who is a core member of the LGBT Psychology Special Interest Group of the Psychological Association of the Philippines, spoke about the nuances and distinctions when it comes to an individual’s sexual orientation and gender identity and expression (SOGIE). He also spoke about the intertwined history of psychology and SOGIE, specifically with the previous inclusion of “homosexuality” as a disorder in previous editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) and stigmatization faced by members of the community, leading to poor mental well-being.

To wrap up the seminar proper were two stunning performances from drag performer Bacardi B, with renditions of “Queen” by Todrick Hall and “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga. Four local LGBTQIA+ led films were also showcased, namely “Ili Ili” by Clister Santos, “Please, Remember This Night” by Joshua de Vera, “Kung Hindi na Dumating ang Bukas” by Julianne Reyes, and “Noontime Drama” by Kim Timan and Sam Villa-Real.