A stretch of Makati Avenue was again made colorful despite the rains and somber sky as the city government of Makati, in partnership with several LGBTIQ+ individuals and organizations, held for the second time “Spread the Love, Makati!” its celebration of LGBTIQ+ Pride Month, on 21 June in the barangay of Poblacion.
The street was lined with booths offering food and activities, including karaoke singing, selling merch, promoting advocacies and providing free HIV testing. Hosted by celebrities Sassa Gurl and KaladKaren, a program of speeches and performances was held at a stage, draped in artist Leeroy New’s installation, made of water bottles and containers.
Many LGBTIQ+ individuals and allies attended the event, some in colorful costumes. Local and national LGBTIQ+ organizations, including the Gays and Lesbians Association of Makati or GLAM, civic and youth groups and the different offices and barangay delegations of Makati City also attended to support the initiative.
Several Makati City officials graced the event including congresswoman Monique Lagdameo, who reminded that “Pride is not just about festivities, it is a powerful platform for change” and “a platform with real purpose to advocate for equality, inclusion, and love in all its forms and expressions.”
She affirmed the city’s commitment in fostering equality and inclusion, saying, “In Makati, we are committed to building a community where every individual regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression feels valued, respected and safe. Makati stands with you, and it will continue to be a city where you are not just accepted but celebrated.”
“As we honor the brave individuals and allies who courageously stood up for equality and the right to be their authentic selves, let us carry their fight forward. Today, take time to listen to the voices of our LGBTQIA + community and celebrate their stories. Let their incredible knowledge, skills, and talents inspire us all to continue building a society where everyone belongs. Remember, love transcends all boundaries. Inclusion empowers us all and truth is powerful as it takes up space. So speak and live your truth in your workplace, in every conversation, and in our community. By doing so, you inspire others to do the same. Together, let us spread love, celebrate diversity, and work towards a future where equality is not just a dream but a reality for everyone,” the politician emphasized.
On the one hand, vice mayor Kid Peña said he is indebted to the LGBTIQ+ community, while congressman Luis Campos declared, “I reiterate our support wholeheartedly for the community and we encourage, in Makati, we encourage diversity and strength in that diversity. We love all of you of all colors, of all beliefs, of all aspirations.”
Geraldine Roman, the country’s first openly transgender congresswoman, also took to the stage to emphasize that there is nothing wrong with being LGBTIQ+. She also dispelled misinformation about the SOGIESC Equality Bill, which aims to protect persons from discrimination based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics, and has not been passed after more than two decades, and underscored its importance.
On the other hand, Maria Barbie Anne Arcache, member of the board of advisors for Social Engagement of Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride, said, “I’ve always thought that being an LGBT is something extraordinary….We are not just more than ordinary, we are simply extraordinary. Why? Because we are two personas in one. We can think like a man, we can also think like a woman in some ways. And I’m so proud to be a transgender woman, and I will shout it out to the world.”
Those who performed that night included O Divas and 02MEN from O Bar, Jason Dhakal, Gigi Vibes, Brigiding, Viñas De Luxe and Taylor Sheesh. Capping the program was a performance by popular drag queen Precious Paula Nicole, the very first winner of Drag Race Philippines.