Update: Judging Panel

The secretariat would like to announce that Rica Paras, Vice Chair of the Society of Transsexual Women of the Philippines (STRAP) will be replacing Naomi Fontanos in the Giting Awards' judging panel. Naomi takes credit for contributing to the development of the awards' mechanics and nomination packages, as well as the award name.

To get to know the new judge, the secretariat sat down with Rica Paras for a short chat.

1. How did you get into LGBT activism?

I was looking for a support group and the support we give leads to activism to find long term solution to address our issues. I love LGBT, and since Activism protects this community, I do it out of love.

2. Why do you think it's important to recognize people who have contributed to the Filipino LGBT community?

To inspire. Growing up, I was looking for a role model to emulate and I struggled though that. I survived though but we should assist the next generation to have a clear direction.

3.Who inspires you and how are you like them?

I do not have anybody in particular but anybody I meet who believes in human rights and makes an effort to protect it inspires me.

Rica joins Perci Cendana (National Youth Commission), Eric Manalastas (UP Diliman's Psychology Department) Malu Marin (Action for Health Initiatives) and Giney Villar (Adarna Food and Culture) in the Giting Awards' judging panel.

The open call for nominations ends on October 1, 2011.

*Image taken with permission from http://pinaytg.blogspot.com