Tattoo on your mind? What to consider before getting inked

In the not-so-distant past, tattoos were considered taboo. Tattoos were associated with muscled guys behind bars, not with young students or even moms. Nowadays, tattoos are more accepted, as more people are looking to get inked. But some tattoo enthusiasts say that even in this day and age, tattooed individuals still experience discrimination.

The GMA News TV program “Tonight with Arnold Clavio” featured tattoo enthusiasts Kean Cipriano and Tatsi Jamnague of the band Callalily, who together own the tattoo shop Star Ink; and professional tattoo artists Sammy Caguioa and Kitty Lagoy.

“Sa society, mukhang hindi pa rin ganun katanggap ang pagpapa-tattoo,” said Kean.“Kapag may mga negative [ang tingin] sa akin dahil marami akong tattoo, ako na lang ang umiintindi sa kanila,” added Kitty.

The call center company where Kitty worked didn't mind that she had many tattoos. But other companies discourage employees from having many tattoos. When Sammy once applied for a job, the potential employer just laughed at him.

Despite the stigma surrounding tattoos, these tattoo enthusiasts have continued to pursue their love affair with body art. They believe that if a person wants to get a tattoo, he or she shouldn't be discouraged by other people's narrow-mindedness. The “Tonight with Arnold Clavio” guests showed off their favorite tattoos and also gave tips for people who want to get their own.


Kean Cipriano

Favorite tattoo: Kean had the word “Salamat” tattooed on his arm, to signify that he is grateful for all the blessings that he's received in life.

Tip: “If you’re planning to get a tattoo, siguraduhin mong okay ‘yung lugar, ‘yung artist, at malinis ang ginagamit na materials. Pag-isipan 100 percent. Kung hindi niyo kayang panindigan, huwag nang ituloy."


Tatsi Jamnague

Favorite tattoo: Tatsi has on her arm a tattoo of a carrot, meant to match Kean’s rabbit tattoo.

Tip: “Importanteng pag-isipan talaga muna ang pagpapa-tattoo,” says Tatsi. Tatsi added that it’s also important to get to know your artist personally first. You're going to have to live with your tattoo for a long time, so you better trust the person who's going to ink it.


Sammy Caguioa

Favorite tattoo: Sammy has a mustache or “bigote” tattooed on his face!

Tip: For Sammy, it’s fun and exciting to get a tattoo. One tattoo is never enough! “Magpa-tattoo kayo. Magparami!” Those who are interested in getting a tattoo from Sammy can message him via his Facebook account.


Kitty Lagoy

Favorite tattoo: Kitty is especially fond of the “God is good” tattoo on her collarbone because she believes in the importance of letting God guide you. “Basta may tiwala ka at masipag ka, Siya ang gagawa ng way para sa iyo,” she explained.

Tip: Kitty advises those who are interested in getting a tattoo to make sure their artist is certified by the Department of Health (DOH). Visit the Facebook page of Kitty's tattoo shop, Kendy Shop.

—Ria Landingin, CM/PF, GMA News