DAVAO CITY (May 31) — “Inday is circumcised!” exclaimed Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan as he shared photos of a unique milestone for some members of the LGBT community who took part in the city’s Free Tuli program last Saturday.
They may go by Inday now, but they joined the tuli program to honor tradition and take charge of their health,” Chan said.
Mayor Chan praised Layla (22), Lesley (26), and Hanabi (35)—three transgender women who courageously joined the mass circumcision event usually associated with traditional male rites of passage in Filipino society.
The mayor said their participation is a strong affirmation of cultural identity and personal choice. “They responded to my call that there is no grandchild of Lapu-Lapu who remains uncircumcised,” he said, referencing the revered Cebuano hero to inspire civic pride and cultural continuity.
Each of the three participants received ₱10,000 in cash as a reward for their courage and willingness to challenge both norms and expectations.
“Circumcision has long been a symbol of Filipino masculinity and maturity,” the mayor explained. “But beyond tradition, doctors have highlighted its health benefits—lowering the risk of urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted infections, and even penile cancer.”
In the Philippines, tuli is not only a medical procedure but also a deeply rooted cultural tradition. It marks the transition from boyhood to manhood and is often seen as a hygienic and social necessity. Typically done in early adolescence, it is a shared experience among young Filipino males—and now, it’s proving to be inclusive of those who identify outside the gender binary.
Mayor Chan ended his post with pride: “Congratulations Layla, Lesley, and Hanabi! You’ve taken a bold step—not just for health, but for identity and tradition. Panatos, Inday!”
