PINK NETWORK

Well, yeah. People from the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer/Questioning) do have networks. This is one way of meeting new people. Even if the world is getting more and more welcoming, there's still some room for prejudice and all. And aside from casual meet-ups in bars, clubs and bath houses, people from the LGBTQ community also go into networking sites. Not just Facebook, Twitter or Friendster. We actually have sites specially dedicated for us. Here are the 4 sites that I recommend and believe are used by most Filipinos.

1. Downelink
- Of the four I have in here, I highly recommend this one. It has somehow a Facebook feel in it and a bit of sophistication and chic. The dashboard does not really spell much of an LGBTQ site but looks like a normal networking site. What's so nice is that you can add friends in here much like FB and Friendster and can do a profile much akin to Multiply and Myspace. Aside from that, there are many more ways to intreact with the users (not just messaging and posting to wall). In here you can participate in forums, do blogs and enjoy the video chat (reminiscent of the old G4M chat) as well. Pretty cool eh. :)

2. Planet Romeo
- PR as it is more commonly known is actually a spot for meet-ups. Back then it was known as G4M (guys 4 men) and has the video chat to boot and the forums. But with the new name comes new stuff which sadly does not include the chat. Still a good place to cruise for possible EBs or SEBs.

3. Manjam
- If you're more into meeting foreigners, here's a spot for you. I think onlt few Filipinos use this. Aside from restrictions on number of views and messaged per day, the functionalities and features of this site is not much to brag about.

4. Lifeout
- If you like tons of action (videos of you know what), here's your haven. But aside from the videos and pics to salivate with, nothing much is left with regards interactivity and oftentimes gets a bit slow just moving from page to page.

What are you waiting for? Join any of these sites and discover more on the colorful world of the LGBTQs.

FRANCOIS NEL OF SOUTH AFRICA IS MR GAY WORLD 2011

South Africa's pride Francois Nel has won the Mr. Gay World 2011 title here in the Philippines at Club Mwah last Sunday, March 13, 2011. Nel bested several gay hunks competing from all across the globe to become the third Mr. Gay World titlist and the second from South Africa.

Truly a gorgeous one. And what makes him more appealing is that he actually studied BA Literature and currently pursuing Visual Arts. Now that's looks, brawn and brains all wrapped in one. Doing modeling on the side, he has graced several photographer portfolios much to the delight of the gay community. Just look at the pics in this article.

Yes! I actually guessed it right! I predicted my Top 10 a few weeks back and put South Africa's Francois Nel as the number 1 for Mr. Gay World 2011 and just as expected he grabbed the title. I also got it right with USA's Michael Holtz being the No.2. (In all, I got it right on 7 of the top 10). Our very own Marc Ernest Biala made it in the Top 10.

MY TEN PICKS FOR MR. GAY WORLD 2011

Philippines will further etch its mark on the LBGT community as it hosts the 2011 edition of Mr. Gay World this coming March 13, 2011 at Club Mwah. Delegates from accross the globe will be here to battle it out on who should be crowned at the best in 2011. As of now, here's my pick for the Top 10.

1. Francois Nel (South Africa)

2. Michael Kevin Holtz (USA)

3. Aaron Comis (New Zealand)

4. Rob Goddard (Canada)

5. Leigh Charles (Australia)

6. Marc Ernest Biala (Philippines)

7. Martin Goga (Czech Republic)

8. Israel Acevedo (Spain)

9. Eduardo Kamke (Brazil)

10. Juan Manuel Lopez (Mexico)

For more info, please visit their official website http://www.mrgayworld.org/

Photo Credits: Contestant's Facebook pages

BED MANILA

Bed is back. After a fire has made them close shop for a while in 2010, BED Manila has once again opened its doors for more fun and music since last December. I have not been to the new BED but will do so when time permits. By the looks on the photos on their site, this is definitely bigger and much more sleek BED.

So. let's celebrate once more and have the parties of your life with friends and strangers alike. BED Manila is back and destined to stay.

BED Manila is open from Wednesdays to Saturdays and doors open at 10 PM.

Photo Credits: Bed Manila website
Website: http://www.bed.com.ph/

MOVIE REVIEW: TARIMA

Tarima is one indie film that has created some buzz the past few weeks. With a stellar cast that includes Fanny Serrano, Gloria Romero and Chokoleit to name a few and featuring Rocky Salumbides as one of main characters this film truly has the makings of a good one. It is a story of unrequited love between a young guy and an aging battered homosexual developed in the most bizaare of ways but fully blossomed as wonderful as a rose. This movie reminds us that true love can be felt between people despite their age or gender difference. And I just loved the theme song. Brings me goosebumps.

Tarima is a wonderful piece all in all. Kudos to director Neal Tan for this. Besides the heartbreaking story, what captured my attention is the level of acting of the stars in the film. Gloria Romero was her usual best and really portrayed cruelty at pinpoint accuracy. Chokoleit's comedic timing was wonderful and has provided lighter side for this tearjerker. Rocky Salumbides' acting was commendable as he fits the role given to him. But topping them all is Fanny Serrano's portrayal. He was just amazing. He brought me to tears and you can really feel the emotions he want top convey. If he's happy you would be smiling but in the scenes he's getting battered, you'll truly fel the pain. Sad ending but the same thing separates this film from the others. 3.5 out of 5 popcorns

DIVING'S PINK AMBASSADOR

Since his big splash in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, there are no words but praise for Australian diver Matthew Mitcham. His feat was memorable as he prevented an all-Chinese sweep in the diving medals back then. Aside from that, he was the first Australian diver to win an Olympic Gold medal since Dick Eve in 1924. The last few stages of the games were nerve wracking as his first five dives were rather not outstanding and he entered his final dive at 2nd behind China's Zhou Luxin, 34 points adrift. But then the big drama happened as Zhou faltered and he grabbed four perfect 10s on his last dive ensuring him of the gold medal.

But the drama did not stop there. Then and there, he showed his affection to his beloved partner Lachlan Fletcher. And the rest was history. Aside from putting himself in the history books of Olympics and diving, he has etched his own mark in the pink community alongside famous gay athletes Greg Louganis (diving) and Rudy Galindo (skating).

Truly one of the braver souls who has completely embraced his sexuality and show the world that he is really good.

CALVIN KLEIN X: FEEL THE HEAT

Calvin Klein (CK) has again intensified its campaign towards underwear supremacy with the introduction of their new line of Calvin Klein X undies. And what a better way to launch and promote it by giving the people sexy and hot male celebrities to flaunt it all. Yes, you heard it right, not just one but 4 male superstars have been chosen to topbill this campaign.

Kellan Lutz

Bannering the pack of hot males for Calvin Klein's new line is Kellan Lutz. For those of you who don't know him then maybe you're from another planet. (just joking). He is Emmett Cullen from the "Twilight" series. So just when you really don't seem to care anyone else aside from Edward (Robert Pattinson) and Jacob (Taylor Lautner), now you may be starting to like a new vampire. He has done several appearances on TV most recently in the 90210 series.

Mehcad Brooks

The second celebrity to banner the campaign is True Blood's Mehcad Brooks. For fans, you might recognize him in the "True Blood" series. And for those who seem to know him well, he starred for a year in the hit series "Desperate Housewives" as Matthew Applewhite. Aside from his acting chops, he is also busying himself from modelling on and off the ramp.

Fernando Verdasco

Next is Fernando Verdasco. Arguably one of the hotter male tennis players in the circuit. Okay, Nadal fans hold it up there but this guy has the goods as well. This Spanish star has been in the circuit for quite a while and has been a regular fixture in ATP's Top 10. Even rumored to be dating tennis hottie Ana Ivanovic, we sure did not expect Verdasco to be this hot.



Hidetoshi Nakata



Last of the four new male celebrities featured in the new CK X campaign is former Japanese footballer Hidetoshi Nakata. Nakata is one of the most popular footballers in Asia during his time and still remains to be specially in Japan. Now that's someone who knows his balls.

CK X gears to bring a new level in underwear fashion. And with this ad, CK has definitely found a hit. The four models represent four elements - earth, water, air and fire. Or maybe they are just there to represent fire? Hot. Well, maybe time to hit the gym to get that physique as well.

DJ BIG KID: MORE THAN THE MUSIC

For most of the people specifically Singaporeans, DJ Big Kid is a household name already. He has spun his way to several gigs across Singapore and even visited several Asian destinations to share his music to the public. He has graced the dance floors of Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta and even Manila. His star is continuously on the rise after his great 2009 stints in the US which is a big thing for DJs in the region. He is truly a gem and a master of his craft.

His parties were off the hook and really brough the house down. He burned the dance floors with his wicked remixes and play sets that was just simply infectious and a wonder to listen and groove at. I have seen him twice already (both in Singapore). I missed him when he went here in the Philippines. His masterful play of the songs and vibes energizes every party-goer there. I saw him at PLAY and recently at the F1 Pit Building last May.

I am a fan and I know most of us are hoping that he and his dad recovers soon. Before knowing the news about his dad, I already liked him as a DJ but now after the sacrifice he has done, I admire him as a person and have no words but utter respect. He is not just a craftsman or just a musician. One important thing is he is a good son and we your fans are really greatfl to have you as one of our music idols.

To DJ Big Kid, till you spin again. We will wait for that day and once again dance to your grooves.

PAOLO ROLDAN SHOWS FILIPINOS CAN DO IT

Filipino-Canadian Paolo Roldan is turning to be one of the new Asian sensations in the modeling world and by mean world I mean the whole of the globe.

Last January 2010, Roldan closed the Fall/Winter Collection for Givenchy. And that is one thing to be proud of it. No model of Filipino lineage has come close to what he has achieved so far. Doubling up as a buyer for Nomad in Canada, he is set to reach higher grounds in the modeling industry. He is one of the Boss models to be featured in Givenchy's Fall ad campaign. Truly he is one proof that Filipinos can excel on any front and somehow has opened the doors more open for other Filipinos who want to have their knack in the modeling world.

And who could not forget his controversial photoshoot for Boss where he was asked to strip off and he did with gusto. Can't show you the full pic but here's a peek of it.

To Paolo Roldan, congratulations and may he continuously prosper and gain popularity not just for him but for the entire nation as well.

COSMOPOLITAN HITS WITH BACHELOR BASH 2010: Wild Do"MEN"ation

The World Trade Center heated to the maximum level last September 9, 2010 as it hosts one of the hottest parties in the land - the Cosmopolitan Bachelor Bash for 2010.

Hosted by VJ Joey Mead who constantly played witht he crowd as well as the game bachelors, it features a lot of the bachelors present in the September issue of Cosmopolitan magazine. The centerfolds were in full force from the "King of the Jungle" Sam Milby. The other 9 centerfolds who strut their stuff were Christian Bautista, who I might say has his body really toned and buffed up, who threw his shades to the audience and Fabio Ide who drenched himself in water to the audience's delight.

Also doing their stuff are Kapamilya regulars Matteo Guidicelli and ex-PBB housemante Tome Rodriguez. Equus' star Marco Manalac and model Bryann Foronda also did the catwalk. Kapuso stars Joross Gamboa who is sporting a new bad boy look, Rocco Nacino who wears his sweet smile and Carl Guevara who teased the public by a peak at his bottoms by lowering his pants.

Other bachelors and notable previous bachelors also were present during the event which includes Luis Alandy, Daniel Matsunaga, Jay-R, Kris Lawrence, Rafael Rossell and Aljur Abrenica who opened the show with a bang.

The Cosmo Bachelor Bash 2010 was directed by Rico Gutierrez of Party Pilipinas and styled by Project Runway Philippines runner-up Santi Obcena. The Cosmo Bachelor Bash is the equivalent of the FHM Sexiest show and it was surely a hot evening. The crowd left the venue satisfied yet eager to get more in the future to come.

PINK NIGHT-OUT

Party!!!

Gay Philippines has steadily grown through the years and in here I'll feature the Top 5 gay discos, comedy bars and clubs then and now in the metro.

1. BED

- Since 2003, BED has been consistent in grabbing the young members of the pink society. Up to now, BED remains to be one of the best hangout places for gays. Not to mention that even the girls and some straight guys now go this club. Dance all your heart out all evening and prepare to be drunk with their set of carefully concocted drinks. One might prepare himself to get intimate as well as the night grows old. Young, hip, fun and sexy - few words to describe BED.

2. Club Government

- Since its closure over a year ago, people still clamor the return of this club. Thought to be the place for elite pinks during its glory days, Government remains in the hearts of its solid children. Party all night as they frequently have concept nights that features the newest sounds in the clubbing scene.

3. Palawan 2 Disco Bar

- Quezon City's top hangout place is P2. At the start of the evening, it serves as a comdey bar to the young and upcoming stand-ups in the country. After the whole set of the performers and some audience participation as well, Palawan 2 turns into a dance floor that lasts till the wee hours of the morning. A bit crowded during weekends but a famous hangout for most people.

4. Clarke Quay Comedy Bar and Disco

- relatively new in the biz, Clarke Quay has been drawing praises from its guests. The good mixture of comedy shows and other special shows has been a hit to its patrons. Plus the choice of setting up in Pasig is a plus as it moves away to the often crowded scene in Malate and QC. Guests are predominantly gays but sightings of girls and straights are also usual.

5. O Bar

- Malate has been home to the most gay-friendly bars and establishments. O Bar is one of the better ones. Though a bit small in size, it remains to be one to be visited specially if you don't want much of the noise from the neighboring BED.

WHAT MEETS THE EYE

WHAT MEETS THE EYE

by Bluecloud

In normal day to day scenario, people go around not necessarily to mingle but juts to do their normal daily activities. During walking or moving from one place to another, people see other individuals. Some of which they notice because of exaggerated appearances (flamboyant clothes, terrifying hairstyles, too fat or too thin) but some because there’s really something in them.

In the wonderful world of gays (bisexuals, ACDCs or whatever you may want to call them), a day to day walking to the office, back at home or anymore can always be adventure. Specifically for single gays out there, it’s always an open opportunity to see other people and explore possibilities. But how do you know, if the person you’re looking at is also of the same color? And the more intriguing question is how will one determine if that person is equally interested in you?

Well, most of the time the answers are quite easy and simple. Gays usually smell their own breed. They know who is and who isn’t. And once they see one, they usually know one. And so they know who belong to their family, but how can one determine if the other party is interested. Well, one great sample is while walking in malls or even in the streets.

Scenario – One gay sees one person he finds nice and who tickles his attention. The other guy looked at him. Does that make the other guy gay as well? Could be but not really. It is normal for people to look at other people on daily activities such as walking and moving around. But you may ask, why did the other party gave attention? Maybe for some reasons – your hair is blown like it was stormy outside, you have a bizarre taste for clothes, you look like his friend and a whole other reasons.

Now let’s move on and go to the next scene. Okay, so the gay took notice of the guy and the guy looked back. But after that, the guy just passed. In that case he’s straight. (80% of the time). 20% of the time it’s either the guy is gay but a.) does not like you or b.) is already committed.

But it becomes different if this happens. The two finally came closer to each other as they walk towards each other. If as they pass each other, they gave even a glance or a brief look to the other person, well the guy may not be a guy after all. =) This means from afar the guy noticed the gay and saw something different or interesting as well. That is the way the other party is returning the favor of being noticed by the other individual. Well, most of the instances do come up to this part. Well, good enough but could be more.

If after completely passing each other, both parties looked back. Then there’s really something to it. They like each other at least on a superficial side of things. What to do on these situations? Simple. Make the move. Approach the other guy and get to know him. Who knows, he just might be the person who’s right for you.