The world of showbiz and film has given Vice Ganda the platform to take queer talent to the mainstream. As a comedian, actor, and host, she never fails to advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights with every moment she gets.
As early as 2011, Vice has already been championing this cause on the big screen in "The Unkabogable Praybeyt Benjamin". In the movie, Vice plays Private Benjamin "Benjie" Santos VIII, an openly gay character forced to become a soldier like his ancestors.
Throughout his journey, he encounters several homophobic comments because of his sexuality, which makes him strive further to prove the naysayers wrong.
Here, we list down some of the key moments from the box-office hit where Vice shares empowering messages about LGBTQIA+ rights:
1. When Benjie vows to his grandfather that he'll bring honor to their family
Coming from a long line of soldiers, it is expected of Benjie to become manly and tough. So, when Benjie’s lolo, Bino (Eddie Garcia), finds out that he has been living as an openly gay individual, the decorated minister marshal embarrasses him in front of their entire family.
Standing firm that there is nothing wrong with his sexuality, Benjie vows to his grandfather right then and there: "Darating ang panahon na itong baklang 'to ang magbibigay karangalan sa pangalan at apelyido n’yo!"
2. When Benjie stands up for himself after being dismissed for being gay
Benjie volunteers to join the armed forces on behalf of his ailing father, Ben (Jimmy Santos). At the camp, Benjie experiences countless homophobic comments and discriminatory acts, including being removed from the military because of his sexuality.
While Benjie may not have initially disclosed that he is gay, it is not an excuse for others to belittle him, just because he is not as tough as his peers. Benjie then hits back at the officers, saying, "Inaamin kong bakla ako pero aminin n’yo, wala namang kinalaman kasarian ko sa pagiging sundalo ko. At saka magaling akong sundalo, 'no. Malaki ang magagawa ko para makalaban sa mga terorista."
3. When Benjie gets the recognition he rightfully deserves for saving his lolo
When Bino gets kidnapped by terrorists, it is Benjie who is able to save him — even putting his life at risk. In a near-death moment, Benjie gets to meet his ancestors, who express their pride in him for bringing honor to their family.
"Bilang mga ninuno mo, proud na proud kami. Dahil sa dinami-dami ba naman ng lalaki sa pamilya natin na matipuno at sundalo, ikaw pa na babakla-bakla ang nagbigay ng mataas na honor," they told him.
Indeed, Benjie, a gay man, fulfills his promise of bringing honor to the Santos family.
Relive all the laughter and trailblazing moments by watching the full movie below!
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