THE newly elected officers of Balangaw, an LGBTQ organization in Puerto Princesa City. The rainbow in Puerto Princesa City has been brighter the past weeks as the first association of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) of the capital city of Palawan finally elect its first set of officers who will serve as their representatives in many aspects in promoting equality.

Out of 207 registered attendees last 28 July at the City Coliseum, Geofred Gabo, known as ‘Nay Favz, emerged as the unanimous winner as the federation president of Balangaw, a LGBTQ+ organization in Puerto Princesa City. Gabo is a known pageant director and beauty queen mentor in the whole province of Palawan.

Known local hair-and-make-up artist Rodelo Coneles was elected vice president for internal affairs, while lesbian advocate and registered nurse Rica Belleza is the vice president for external affairs. Roland Joseph Palanca is the secretary, while Marlon San Juan is the treasurer and Jester Roque the auditor.

In his speech, Gabo emphasized unity among its members. He has witnessed how united the previous organization of senior LGBTQs was, challenging him to do the same. He also promised to provide more opportunities for all the LGBTQ of the city in different professions.

Balangaw is a Cuyonon word for “rainbow,” the universal symbol of LGBTQ. The formation of Balangaw Puerto Princesa was made possible with the help of Project H4 along with Pilipinas Shell Foundation and the city government of Puerto Princesa.