Navigating Identity: Unpacking the Lived Experiences of Filipino Homosexual Men in Muslim Communities

Abstract

Homosexuals around the world continue to face discrimination. This historical stigma is rooted and propagated by the cultural and religious values held by communities. Over the years, however, accepting individuals for who they are become increasingly recognized as essential. This study aims to address the existing gaps and to inform the development of culturally informed support services and promote greater understanding and acceptance among Muslim communities by emphasizing the unique context of Lanao del Sur, southern Philippines. These research questions guided the study: (1) How do Filipino homosexual men in a Muslim community experience the intersectionality of their sexual identity and religious environment? and (2) How do they negotiate and make sense of dual pressure of religious conformity and personal authenticity?    Using qualitative design, the study involved seven Muslim men in the Philippines, aged 21 to 35, who identify as homosexual. This age range was selected to capture individuals likely to have developed a stable sense of identity and to have encountered a range of experiences related to their sexual orientation. Participants were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. Findings reveal how these individuals navigate the delicate balance between their sexual identity and the religious and cultural expectations that shape their social environment. They emphasize the pervasive impact of stigma and social isolation, while also highlighting the resilience fostered through coping strategies and social support networks.