Queen goes to dolldom

MANILA, Philippines - I don’t know how it started but it seems like the name “Divine” is now synonymous with the title “Becky Queen.”

More than anything, I am deeply honored. I beam with pride and happiness when people call me this. Not too long after I was tagged this, my “official” engagements followed right away. And one of those would be to crown the new Queen Mother of Ateneo de Manila University’s Dollhouse organization — a clique of fabulous gay people and like-minded friends. I’ve been planning to pay respect to the Dollhouse and what’s a better day than the coronation itself?

She bangs: Megan Young, Saab Magalona, and Tim Villareal rock their manes.

The coronation was a day of high heels, hair spray, wild makeup, hilarious speeches, “balaj” moments and laughter. Each nominee came in their “fiercest” attire and had a platform, which they communicated in two-minute speeches that would rival a comedy bar act. Sample lines: “Nag outfit ako, panalunin nyo ako” (from Queen Mother) and “magpapatayo ako ng nuclear power plant” (from Lady Gaguard).

Projects had names like “Operation C.H.A.R.O.” — or “Changing Homophobe Ateneans for Respect to Outlast.” But all these colorful monologues and outfits didn’t mask its true meaning: the fight for equality is loud and clear. It may be humorous to the other students, but the message is real: Battle Cry Equality is at full speed.

Dollhouser-for-life Nyko Rodriguez spends quality time with Victor Basa

As an honorary becky, I am proud to say that we always think out of the box. We don’t take ourselves too seriously and we’ve mastered the art of witty comments to bring the message across and will even poke fun at ourselves just to enforce this. The election may seem like the college version of a stand-up comedy act but honestly, it’s a movement that pushes our cause forward. This is our version of a rally, this is our platform to communicate, and this is our way of letting you know our plea. We refuse to sit in a corner and wait for Superman. Truth is, we don’t need him, because we have our own superheroes, and that is the Dollhouse… Choz!

Shout, shout, let it all out.

I am happy to see our friends from all levels and different industries colorfully fighting off discrimination. I am happy that even with all the hurt and sadness, we are still the frontrunners of positivity and laughter. As I always say, you guys make me proud. Kayo na!

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An edited video of the speeches will be uploaded on www.divinemlee.com and @divinemlee on Twitter.