John Michael F. Odtohan
Bio
A writer, student journalist, advocate for queer rights, and aspires to work in film and TV production. Fly high, Trans Pinay!
Stories (3)
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ONCE A DING BECOMES A DARNA OF HER OWN
Conforming to the macabre adoration with macho-egotistical action stars became a prerequisite in a male-dominated household. Yet, growing with a queer heart, I had canonized Darna as a standard of my choice. I cravenly put on hand-made costumes resembling Darna, almost choked in a yakee gumball, and reimagined scenes from a recently-released episode. My paranoid parents took this interest hysterically, but in my case, I wanted to be like Darna—her femininity reflecting in mine and her actions are stepping stones to a greater adventure I aspire to traverse.
By John Michael F. Odtohan2 years ago in Journal
Chicken Blood
I grew up in a barrio whose method of survival includes a ritualistic offering of chicken or pig's blood—asking for protection from a deity. However, the decade-long tradition became an excuse of most local officials to gloss over the difference between supernaturality and competency. Our barrio suffered for several years considering our limited accessibility to information, and no amount of chicken or pig's blood can revive our submerged lives, residences, and livelihoods.
By John Michael F. Odtohan2 years ago in Journal
I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN THE OPTIMISTIC ONE
I have always been the optimistic one. It is as if I am a chatty Cathy doll that when the string is pulled, I oppressively spew plethora motivational quotes. It became a macabre disposition, perhaps almost a fetish—that in difficulty there is an opportunity, and in every downfall, there is a silver lining.
By John Michael F. Odtohan2 years ago in Journal
