Pilareño members of LGBTQA+ community join Pride Congress 2023
PILAR, SORSOGON- In celebration of the Pride Month 2023, Pilareῆo members of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, Intersex, Asexual and more (LGBTQIA+) community join Pride Congress held on June 20,2023 at LGU Gymnasium, Calongay, Pilar, Sorsogon.
LGBTQIA+ members proudly raised their rainbow flags as they marched from Poblacion to LGU Complex wearing their own designed colorful costumes and props.
Board Member Maria Nini O. Ravanilla, Chair., Committee on GAD, Tourism, Women & Family and LGBTQIA+ graced the event being this year’s guest. Ravanilla is known as one of the advocates of LGBTQ expressed her utmost appreciation to the LGBT community. Ravanilla stated that each member should be respected, treated equally and must be supported by recognizing their contributions to the society as they give pride and honor through their remarkable talents and skills.
Part of the activity is the pride contest where each candidate showcased their talents in dancing, singing, acting, and many more.
Speakers from Gender and Development (GAD), Municipal Health Office (MHO), and Commission on Elections (COMELEC) also discussed SOGIE Bill, HIV/AIDS Awareness, and the helpful tips in voting safely during the election day and ways to be a better voter.
The celebration was sponsored by LGU-Pilar thru the Gender and Development headed by Ms. Jocelyn Llona in collaboration with OMSWD, OMHO, OMDRRM, DSWD, PNP, COMELEC and other LGBTQ advocates.
Cognizant that Pride Month is celebrated every month of June and dedicated to uplifting LGBTQ voices, it also emphasizes culture and respect for their rights.
Meanwhile, awarding of certificates was presented to the speakers, judges and participants by Mayor Carolyn C. Sy-Reyes, Vice Mayor Luis Leosala Jr., and guests who have shown their full support in the pride celebration. (Pilar PIO)
Source: Office of the Gender and Development
Photos: OPIO
