Tomboy Culture &
Filipino Lesbian Identity
Understanding the unique cultural landscape of lesbian life in the Philippines — from tomboy identity to LGBTQ+ rights and community.
Topics
Tomboy Culture in the Philippines
Understanding a uniquely Filipino identity
In the Philippines, 'tomboy' (often shortened to 'TB') refers to a masculine-presenting lesbian or gender-nonconforming woman. Unlike in Western contexts where the term can be pejorative, in the Philippines it is widely used as a neutral or even proud self-identifier. Tomboyism has deep roots in Filipino culture, with tomboys visible across all social classes, regions, and generations.
Filipino Lesbian Glossary
Tomboy / TB
Masculine-presenting lesbian or gender-nonconforming woman. A neutral/proud self-identifier in PH.
Femme / F
Feminine-presenting lesbian. Often paired with a tomboy in relationships.
TS (Tomboyish)
Someone between femme and tomboy in presentation.
Bakla
Feminine gay man or transgender woman. A distinct identity from lesbian/tomboy.
Bayot
Visayan equivalent of bakla, used in Cebu and Visayas regions.
SOGIE
Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression — the basis of PH equality legislation.
Ate
Older sister/woman — used respectfully for older lesbians in a community.
Lodi
Idol (reversed) — slang for someone admired in the community.