Redefining the nightlife: The first sapphic party in Baguio City
It’s not often that spaces for queer women emerge—especially in a predominantly Catholic and patriarchal country, and even less so in provinces less urbanized than Metro Manila. This makes the recent sapphic event in Baguio City a groundbreaking moment for the queer women community in the region.
On Nov. 29, 2024, Baguio hosted its first-ever sapphic party: “B.E.B.S.”, inspired by the sapphic movie D.E.B.S. Organized by local creatives and proud sapphics Allaiza Aradanas and Danielle Tan, better known as Ara and Dani, the event marked a bold step toward greater LGBTQ+ representation in the city. Their initiative, Kollectibz, is a growing community created by and for queer individuals, dedicated to fostering spaces where self-expression and connection can thrive.
For Ara and Dani, the vision behind Kollectibz and “B.E.B.S.” came from recognizing a gap in the local scene. Dani explained, “We noticed a lack of dedicated parties for sapphic individuals in Baguio, while such events are more common in metro areas.”
Although LGBTQ+ representation has increased in media and online, there remains a strong desire for physical venues where queer women can create memories.
While LGBTQ+ spaces are becoming more widespread, venues specifically for women-loving women remain scarce and deeply needed.
“By organizing this party, we hoped to provide a platform for sapphics to gather, have fun, and build meaningful connections. It’s about creating a safe and supportive space where everyone feels seen, heard and valued,” Dani added.
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The event featured artists, merchants and DJs—Ara, one of the organizers and a homegrown DJ, was also part of the lineup—from the sapphic community, creating an atmosphere where attendees could express their authentic selves without judgment. With no men in attendance, the event offered a refreshing change in nightlife dynamics, providing a rare space where queer women could be their true selves. For many, it became a refuge.
One attendee, a 21-year-old lesbian, went to the event with her long-term girlfriend. She shared, "This is the only place where I feel comfortable showing public displays of affection to my girlfriend. Outside, I’m always afraid of being judged or even hurt, especially since I’m not out yet."
Her experience highlights the ongoing struggles faced by queer women: the fear of judgment, harassment, and even violence. Paradoxically, bars and parties, typically considered unsafe spaces for women, have been transformed into sanctuaries through events like “B.E.B.S.”, where boundaries are respected, and freedom is celebrated.
Another respondent, 22, also shared her perspective: “I can dance here without being sexualized, unlike in other bars.”
Although LGBTQ+ representation has increased in media and online spaces, there remains a strong desire for physical venues where queer women can create memories and share experiences unique to their identities. As Young STAR contributor Jewel Enrile noted in an article on lesbian and sapphic spaces in the Philippines, progress has been made, but true inclusivity requires more visibility in real-world spaces.
“B.E.B.S.” has proven to be a game-changer for Baguio’s queer women, showing that traditionally unsafe spaces can be reimagined and reclaimed. For a few hours, attendees celebrated their shared identities, dancing, screaming, and existing in an atmosphere of acceptance that extended far beyond the venue.
As Kollectibz continues to grow, events like “B.E.B.S.” offer hope for similar initiatives across the country, carving out spaces where queer women can thrive.
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To stay updated on upcoming events by Kollectibz, follow them on Instagram at @kollectibz_. Their page features insights into their initiatives, event announcements, and a glimpse into the vibrant community that celebrates and empowers queer women.
