Dumaguete church officials score 'indecent' beauty, gay pageants

MANILA, Philippines — Roman Catholic Church officials in Negros Oriental province scored Friday what it called "indecent" pageants being held during the month of May, an online news site reported. Visayan Daily Star (www.visayandailystar.com) reported that Dumaguete Diocese Vicar General Msgr. Gamaliel Tulabing particularly scored Bikini Open, and Miss Gay, where contestants wear skimpy outfits. He called on local government officials to pass an ordinance or issue an executive order banning or regulating the conduct of vulgar shows that promote immorality in society. Also, he urged women’s rights advocates and various church organizations to help uphold and maintain the respect and dignity of women and children. Earlier, Dumaguete Bishop John Du requested a local television station in the city not to air a Miss Gay pageant, saying it does not pr omote good values among children and other viewers. Tulabing said homosexuals have all the right to be respected as human beings and being part of society. He said gays are multi-talented and are even responsible for creating successful cultural and historical events. But he emphasized there are several ways to develop their talent, aside from joining Miss Gay pageants which make them less respected by the community. In most instances, the pageant candidates become objects of lust for men because of their skimpy bikinis. Tulabing said pageant organizers may opt to use wholesome swimwear for candidates instead. - GMANews.TV