Revisiting ‘Pusong Mamon’ and the power of queer cinema

Unafraid to portray queerness as a real, lived experience, ‘Pusong Mamon’ remains relevant after nearly 30 years

MANILA, Philippines – At a time when the word “Pride” was far from being mainstream, a little film from 1998 dared to speak its truth.

Nearly three decades later, Pusong Mamon still resonates, not just for its charm and comedy, but for the courage it took to tell a queer story during an era that was far less progressive than today. 

The film, directed by Joel Lamangan and written by RJ Nuevas, was a trailblazer in local cinema — unafraid to portray queerness not as a punchline, but as a real, lived experience wrapped in warmth, humor, and heartbreak.

At one point in the film, the characters Ron, Nick, and Annie — portrayed by Albert Martinez, Eric Quizon, and Lorna Tolentino, respectively — attend a symbolic union between their gay friends: a quiet, intimate ceremony not recognized by law, but meaningful nonetheless. It’s a moment that gently hints at what love could look like outside traditional norms.

Today, while same-sex marriage remains unrecognized in the Philippines, symbolic commitment ceremonies officiated by progressive local government units are becoming more visible. 

The idea of queer couples forming families — through adoption or surrogacy — is also beginning to enter everyday conversations, both on and off the screen.

For filmmaker and singer Jeffrey Hidalgo, who recently saw the film for the first time at Ayala Malls Cinemas’ Reel Pride screening series, the experience was more than nostalgic.

“Natuwa ako (I enjoyed it). It’s my first time [seeing] the movie. I’ve heard a lot of good things about it. It did not disappoint — to think that this film is almost 30 years old. It transcended the decades; it’s still relevant,” the 48-year-old celebrity shared.

“The jokes are dated, at the same time, it’s really an eye-opener. It’s like for everyone else to know what the LGBTQIA+ community is going through, the ‘roles’ that people assume,”he added.

“In a way, [the movie is] educational. It’s a very powerful and fun message behind the film.”

Those assumed roles — often reduced to tired stereotypes — remain part of the ongoing struggle. Hidalgo acknowledges how queer individuals are still boxed into caricatures, especially in media.

When asked about the importance of Pride-driven storytelling and the need for more films like Pusong Mamon, Hidalgo reflected on how far queer cinema has come.

“Yeah, definitely. To think that this was 1998 — this was definitely ahead of its time. I’m sure many people were shocked that time,” he said, smiling.

“There are many queer films that are coming out now, and the filmmakers are really good, and young, fresh voices. A very exciting time.”

But for all the progress, Pusong Mamon still reflects truths that persist today. Coming out remains a deeply personal journey. Many members of the LGBTQIA+ community still struggle with acceptance, especially within nuclear families. 

Some remain closeted, torn between living openly or choosing what society deems a “conventional” path. And while the world may seem louder and prouder today, the truth is, coming out happens only when someone is ready.

Running until July 1, Ayala Malls Cinemas’ Reel Pride celebrates queer Filipino stories that paved the way — and those still forging new paths. 

The lineup includes Pusong Mamon (1998), Macho Dancer (1988), Mahal Kita, Beksman (2022), and Two and One (2022), in select Ayala Malls including Trinoma, Market! Market!, Fairview Terraces, and Manila Bay.

These aren’t just films — they’re milestones. Brave hearts captured on screen. – Rappler.com