From transition to advocacy: Nil Nodalo’s inspiring journey
Being a trans man is a lifelong commitment, according to Nil Nodalo—just like his dedication to the 300-strong TransMan Pilipinas, which he cofounded in 2012.
Nodalo explained that the primary goal of creating TransMan Pilipinas was to establish a support group for those transitioning to become men, a process that was considered “super taboo” at the time. In his search for doctors and clinics willing to assist him in his transition, he laid the groundwork for what would later become a vital resource. Today, there are three gender clinics in Metro Manila that cater to trans men.
“We signed a memorandum of agreement with these clinics, which promised not to discriminate against trans men patients and to accommodate them. They will guide you every step of the way,” he shared in a recent interview with Lifestyle.
The process starts with a psychologist’s evaluation to determine if someone is suited to become a trans man. Next, tests with an endocrinologist ensure the individual is healthy enough for hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Finally, hormones are prescribed.
Twelve years later, TransMan Pilipinas continues to advocate for its members’ rights. While drafting a gender recognition bill in the Philippines remains a major consideration, Nodalo emphasized that their priority is the passage of the Sogie (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression) Equality Bill into law.
Now 14 years into his transition, Nodalo still dreams of changing his birth name and gender marker on all his government-issued documents. “Baby steps!” he said.
Acceptance
One of the hardest parts of Nodalo’s journey was gaining the acceptance of his family and loved ones. He started transitioning at 24 but wasn’t mature enough to understand the need to be patient with those close to him. Acceptance didn’t come easily for his family, especially his mother, who raised him single-handedly, and his girlfriend Catherine, who was his partner even when he still identified as a “butch” (masculine-presenting lesbian).
“Back then, I was already giving talks at schools and universities, educating people about trans issues, but I couldn’t manage my own household,” he admitted. “I would react negatively when called by my birth name or referred to with female pronouns. I was still immature, and undergoing HRT changes you mentally.”
Sticking to a serious relationship and making it work is also tough for a trans man, Nodalo admitted. “Sadly, the relationships of a lot of trans men I know don’t last long. When we undergo transition, we also change emotionally. I’m just thankful that my wife stood beside me through my journey,” he said, adding that they now have a daughter, who will soon turn 2, along with six dogs.
Nodalo said he and Catherine had planned the pregnancy for a long time. They consulted several doctors before finding one who eventually helped them. “The sperm donor is my relative. I don’t plan to keep this a secret from my daughter—she might eventually have access to interviews like this. Right now, I’m happy and simply living in the moment,” he shared.
‘Unconditional’
In 2023, Nodalo was part of the stage play “Dick Talk.” These days, he is busy as a consultant for Adolf Alix Jr.’s dramatic film “Unconditional,” where a woman (played by Rhian Ramos) falls in love with a trans man (Allen Dizon).
Dizon said he is relying heavily on Nodalo to effectively portray the role. “I honestly didn’t know much about trans men prior to sitting down with Nil, who patiently explained to me the difference between trans men and lesbians. I realized that they are similar in terms of wanting to be appreciated for who they are. It’s definitely a challenging role for me, but learning about Nil’s journey, I realized that the impossible can be possible,” Dizon told reporters over lunch recently.
Alix, meanwhile, addressed comments about LGBTQIA+ representation in films. He explained that a progressive thinker would understand why a straight actor was cast as a trans man. “This is no different from someone playing the role of a thief. Do we have to hire an actual thief, or can an actor who took the time to study the role do it?” he argued. “There should be openness on both sides. A trans actor can very well play a straight guy role—that would be interesting to see.”
Nodalo then addressed the issue of “Pinoy Big Brother” alumnus Jesi Corcuera, who is also a trans man, becoming pregnant. Nodalo said that since Corcuera is a good friend, he was aware that the latter had been planning to conceive for years. “I personally cannot imagine myself getting pregnant—men don’t give birth. But I respect the decision of Jesi and his partner. Of course, I cannot speak for the rest of the members of the trans community,” he began.
“They feel like we have only just started making people understand what it’s really like to be a trans man. We are putting in the effort, and then something like this comes along. Jesi’s move definitely made a huge impact on the trans community. But as the CEO and founder of TransMan Pilipinas, I always remind members to be open-minded and treat everyone with respect. If Jesi gets bashed, this will definitely not come from the members of the organization.”