Seven outstanding LGBTQIA Pasigueños received this year's “Pasig Pride Awards” during the city’s Pride Month celebration on Sunday, June 25.
The Pride Award honors the achievements and contributions of LGBTQIA individuals in Pasig City in various fields.
(Screengrab from Pasig Pride Council FB Live)
The awardees included Alex Melendres, the founding president and overall coordinator of the first LGBTQ organization in Pasig. He has been actively involved in LGBTQIA youth advocacy groups and programs as a community leader since 1976, especially in his hometown of Barangay Caniogan. Perci Intalan, a prolific film director, known for his works focusing on LGBTQIA media namely the “Born Beautiful” and “Die Beautiful” movies also received an award. Atty. Dinna Paulino, a senior assistant prosecutor in the Department of Justice (DOJ), was also given the “Pride Award” for her efforts in upholding justice for women, children, and other marginalized sectors. She had successfully prosecuted abuse cases involving violence against women and children (VAWC) with a 90 percent conviction rate. The other major winners were Dr. Glicerio Maningas, the new president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Pasig (PLP) for his contributions and advocacy for education and support for LGBTQIA youth empowerment in schools; and Nardie Presa, a fashion designer and icon whose vibrant creations have been featured in national and international runways and showcases. A “special citation” award was given to an LGBTQIA couple, Don and Rica Brook, who were recognized as an inspiration to Pasiguenos. The “Pride Ally of the Year” award was also given to Arcovia City, Megaworld Corporation for hosting the city’s Pride Night.
(Screengrab from Pasig Pride Council FB Live)
(Screengrab from Pasig Pride Council FB Live)
(Screengrab from Pasig Pride Council FB Live)
The awardees included Alex Melendres, the founding president and overall coordinator of the first LGBTQ organization in Pasig. He has been actively involved in LGBTQIA youth advocacy groups and programs as a community leader since 1976, especially in his hometown of Barangay Caniogan. Perci Intalan, a prolific film director, known for his works focusing on LGBTQIA media namely the “Born Beautiful” and “Die Beautiful” movies also received an award. Atty. Dinna Paulino, a senior assistant prosecutor in the Department of Justice (DOJ), was also given the “Pride Award” for her efforts in upholding justice for women, children, and other marginalized sectors. She had successfully prosecuted abuse cases involving violence against women and children (VAWC) with a 90 percent conviction rate. The other major winners were Dr. Glicerio Maningas, the new president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Pasig (PLP) for his contributions and advocacy for education and support for LGBTQIA youth empowerment in schools; and Nardie Presa, a fashion designer and icon whose vibrant creations have been featured in national and international runways and showcases. A “special citation” award was given to an LGBTQIA couple, Don and Rica Brook, who were recognized as an inspiration to Pasiguenos. The “Pride Ally of the Year” award was also given to Arcovia City, Megaworld Corporation for hosting the city’s Pride Night.
Hopes for Pride
The awarding ceremony was just one of the highlights of the Pasig Pride celebrations, themed “Umaagos ang Pantay-pantay na Pag-asa sa Lungsod Pasig,” on Sunday, highlighting the multitudes of expressions of communities across all genders. During the program, various testimonials from different LGBTQIA members were delivered; all with a resounding call for equal rights and freedom from oppression. They urged for access to education on gender and sexual identity for all; safety for all against homophobic and transphobic hate crimes; implementation of projects for mental, emotional, and physical wellness for the LGBTQIA community, equal access to all public services, especially gender-friendly health services; and proper enforcement of the Anti-Discrimination Ordinance. "We celebrate the beauty and strength of LGBTQ community -- An extraordinary tapestry of diverse identities, experiences, and stories. each one of you brings a unique perspective and contribution to our society,” said Rey Espina, head of the Pasig Gender and Development (GAD) Office.
(Screengrab from Pasig Pride Council FB Live)
Local gov’t allyship
As an ally to the LGBTQIA community, the Pasig City local government, through its City Council, approved of its [Comprehensive Anti-Discrimination Ordinance (CADO) or Ordinance No. 4 last early 2022.](https://mb.com.ph/2022/04/20/pasig-city-lgu-approves-ordinances-for-lgbtq-creation-of-pride-council/) The CADO was formally launched and introduced to the public this Pride event by Councilor Corazon Raymundo, who also serves as the chairperson for the Committee on Women. "Asahan niyo po, with our Pride Council, we shall see a better future for all of us, with the inclusion of our LGBTQIA" In relation to this, Rechie Tugawin, executive assistant from the Office of the City Mayor, also announced that the local government is beginning or processing the full enforcement of the Pasig Pride Council. The council, which will be led by Mayor Vico Sotto, will consist of Councilor Raymundo, local government office and department heads, the GAD Office, the other civilian LGBTQIA members. In accordance with Ordinance No. 5, the council will serve as the bridge between the local government and the LGBTQIA community. All issues related to the LGBTQIA sector will pass through the Pasig Pride Council, said Tugawin.
(Screengrab from Pasig Pride Council FB Live)
Pride March
Hundreds of LGBTQIA Pasigueños and allies marched from the Pasig City Hall to Arcovia City in the Pride Parade. LGBTQIA organizations and groups from the city’s 30 barangays flaunted their own floats and festival-themed performances, presenting the talents, skills and creativity of the local queer community. The local government awarded certificates and cash prizes to the best floats and performances during the parade. Barangay Palatiw won the champion title and P30,000 for their bright yellow sunflower-themed float. The second place spot and P20,000 went to Barangay Manggahan for their elaborate flame-red costumes displayed by their muses. The third place and P10,000 went to Barangay Rosario for their golden rays and flower ensemble. To cap off the night, high-energy performances were delivered by LGBTQIA artists Nica Del Rosario, Pow Chavez, Mela Habijan, and drag queens such as Lady Morgana and the House of Xilouhete and Lola Divas.