The City of Manila held a Pride event that was supposed to showcase the city’s “solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community”.
Helmed by the Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila, under the leadership of its officer-in-charge Charlie DJ Duñgo, is another top-to-bottom effort for members of the LGBTQIA+ community; meaning, despite its good intentions, it is implemented for LGBTQIA+ people community not necessarily by community members.
As an effort to merely showcase the local LGBTQIA+ community, a parade was held, starting at Arroceros Park and circled the area of Manila City Hall; with a post-parade event joined by Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan, Vice Mayor Yul Servo Nieto, and the principal author of Manila LGBTQI Protection Ordinance, Councilor Joel “JTV” Villanueva. Liga ng mga Barangay President Coun. Lei Lacuna and Manila Public Employment Service Office Director Fernan Bermejo were also present at the celebration at Kartilya ng Katipunan.
This was followed by a concert featuring Panthera Arma, Miss Caliyugh Black, Crimson Gem, Sierra Grandre, Violin Sparkle, Pink Mannequins, Femme MNL, and Sound Salad.
