Alexis Phoebe Ngitngit
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Raymond Vega is a 44-year-old culinary arts graduate and a former theater actor. He carved a unique path in his profession as chef in a cargo ship and how he took part in a Claro Palm Oil commercial while championing acceptance for the LGBTQIA+ community. Born during the 1980s, a time when societal norms only recognized the genders of man and woman, Vega has faced numerous challenges due to his sexual preference as a man open to anything.
Vega embraces his true identity privately but publicly, he finds himself assuming a persona to avoid offensive remarks. This daily struggle stems from the difficulty he experienced gaining acceptance, especially from his conservative family. As the only one among his 13 siblings who identifies as gay, Vega yearns for understanding and attention, seeking a bond that transcends societal expectations.
Remaining optimistic, Vega has been witnessing the remarkable progress in the acceptance of the queer community. Unlike his generation, today's community can express themselves freely and openly without a reproach or judgement. Vega highlights the importance of valuing one's family, as they become the support system during moments of struggle and failure.
To those within the queer community, Vega urges belief in oneself and the pursuit of personal aspirations, as long as they do not harm others. He defines pride as an expression of love, hope, and everything encompassing an individual's true nature. His advice to those hesitant to enter the public eye due to judgement is to disregard the opinions of others and embrace self-expression, while ensuring it does not cause harm.
In the culinary and theatrical fields, he believes that acceptance requires no specific precautions. He encourages aspiring individuals to pursue their passions and talents without holding back, while also promoting a supportive and inclusive environment. With his sights set on a culinary career on cargo ships, the chef plans to cater to the specific needs and desires of seafarers, aiming to bring happiness through his dishes. Expanding his career path in culinary, Vega envisions studying Kitchen Management and Gastronomy - Food Science in Australia.
The chef’s dedication to the LGBTQIA+ also extends beyond his professional endeavors. As an HIV ambassador in Cavite City, he supports individuals seeking assistance and providing education and resources to combat the stigma surrounding HIV. Vega emphasizes that HIV affects anyone, regardless of their sexual orientation, and therefore, support should extend beyond the queer community.
Chef Vega's consistent message to the queer community is a call for mutual respect as a foundation for love and acceptance. He admires the community's fighting spirit and encourages them to continue spreading love while embodying qualities that drive them toward achieving their goals. Raymond Vega pushed us to guide our path toward a more inclusive society by leaving us a reminder of “No Hatred, Only Love.”
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Join us as we embark on a groundbreaking journey that celebrates love and diversity, more to come soon only here at Gulaman Entertainment.
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Directed by: Mark Asuncion & Chelsea David
Co-Directed and Photographed by: Frank Ahlen Agawin
Designed and Edited by: Luis Martin Martin Mañalac
Logo design by: Erziabeth Cortes
HMUA: Roman Badiable
Videographer, Co-Photographer, Production Designer: Tanya Pangilinan