SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union — The Provincial Government of La Union led residents and members of the LGBTQIA+ community in celebrating Pride Month at SM City La Union on 28 June under the theme "Maris ti Panagkaykaysa" (Colors of Unity).

Organized by the Provincial Youth, Education and Sports Development Office, the event opened with a Pride March joined by provincial officials, government employees, youth groups and representatives from various sectors.

Board Member Chary P. Nisce, chair of the Committee on Women, Responsible Parenthood, and Gender and Development, highlighted local ordinances and programs supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, emphasizing acceptance, equality and respect for individual identity.

Gov. Mario Eduardo C. Ortega said gender should never be a barrier to contributing to society.

Among those in attendance were Board Members Martin De Guzman and Joyce Abuan, Bauang Mayor Manang Bong Lee, Bauang Vice Mayor Tanya Roberta A. De Guzman, Santol Mayor Maria Theresa Lynn Wailan-Senen, Bacnotan Councilor Franklin N. Almodovar, United Senior Citizens Representative Milagros Aquino-Magsaysay, and KM Ngayon Na Representative Kenneth Paolo C. Tereng.

The celebration also featured a Pride Symposium on Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE), a makeup competition in bridal and creative categories, and "Volleybeks," a one-day volleyball tournament.