Sex - a three-letter word that piques curiosity and offers pleasure - is rarely discussed openly in relationships or society.
In an effort to spark a new era of sexual health awareness, Unprude, a holistic sexual wellness ecosystem providing expert advice via its app and a range of intimate products, hosted the “Unbecoming Summit.”
This landmark event, the country’s first-ever summit focused on sexual health, created a platform for future discussions on sexual wellness.
Held recently at Rockwell Club in Makati City, the summit underscored the growing demand for cultural change.
“When we come together to break the silence surrounding sex, we not only help others embrace their sexual selves but also pave the way for a more understanding and respectful society,” Dr. Rica Cruz, US-based certified clinical sexologist and Unprude founder and CEO, said.
The “Unbecoming Summit" featured two impactful workshops designed to deepen attendees’ understanding of sexual wellness:
1. From Taboo to Talk: Empowering Parents as Sex Education Advocates: Facilitated by Dr. Cruz and her daughter Caia Miella, this workshop equipped parents with strategies to discuss sex education with their children, fostering trust and mutual respect in their relationships.
2. Soulful Sensuality and Sacral Awakening: Led by Reiki practitioner and Soulful Feasts founder Stephanie Zubiri, this session explored the connection between body and spirit, promoting self-love through mindful awareness. Attendees enjoyed card readings and rose quartz love candles at Zubiri’s booth.
The summit’s keynote speeches offered diverse perspectives on enhancing sexual wellness in the Philippines:
1. Kat Alano, international public speaker and advocate against sexual violence, delivered a stirring keynote on “Sex in Filipino Culture: The Conversation We’ve Never Had,” addressing cultural taboos and advocating for bodily autonomy and protection against abuse.
2. Dr. Judith Perez-Peralta of Kindred discussed women’s sexual development, offering insights into how sexual wellness needs evolve from puberty through menopause.
3. Sanaiyah Gurnamal, love coach and host of the Project Loving Myself podcast, presented “Hidden Love Patterns: Unmasking the Invisible Forces Shaping Your Love Life,” guiding attendees on breaking unhealthy relationship patterns.
4. Drag Den’s Mrs. Tan led a thought-provoking discussion on SOGIE, encouraging respect for individuals’ authentic selves.
Panels like “Rising Above: From Narratives of Abuse to Stories of Empowerment,” featuring Kat Alano, Isabela Aguirre, and Atty. Alex Castro, and “The Bottom Line of Sex: Business of the Sexual Wellness Market,” with Jess de Mesa, Ava Daza Zanirato, and Kiya Braun, ignited critical conversations.
These discussions brought together industry experts, survivors, and advocates to share insights and strategies for change.
DJ Tony Toni, who moderated the panels, remarked, “I’ve been talking about sex for over 20 years, and I can’t believe this is the first sexual wellness summit in the Philippines. This is also the first sex-related event where women outnumber the men.”
The event concluded with an electrifying drag performance by Brigiding, a beloved queen from Drag Race Philippines Season 1.
Her performance celebrated sexual confidence and self-expression, embodying the spirit of the Unbecoming Summit.
With its sold-out success, the “Unbecoming Summit” has set a powerful precedent for future discussions on sexual wellness in the Philippines and beyond, positioning itself as a cornerstone event for advancing sexual awareness and education.
Photo Courtesy: Unprude FB Page
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