BANGKOK, THAILAND – For advocating for LGBTQIA+ human rights, two locals of Batangas City were recognized at the HERO Awards 2025, a regional platform honoring those advocating for LGBTQIA+ issues like HIV across Asia and the Pacific.
Congresswoman Beverley Rose Abaya Dimacuha received the Community Ally Award for championing inclusive governance and equality-based policies; while Aivan Alvarez, founder of Wagayway Equality Inc., was recognized as Community Hero for his work in community-driven advocacy through the Wagayway Equality Desk, and Espasyo Community Center.
“This is more than just an award — it’s a celebration of how equality thrives when local governments and communities work hand in hand,” said Alvarez. “From Batangas to Bangkok, our message is clear: inclusive leadership can transform lives, one community at a time.”
According to APCOM executive director Midnight Poonkasetwattana, collective efforts help make efforts successful, and this year’s recipients exemplified this. “The HERO Awards celebrate(s) not only individual excellence but collective courage — the kind that breaks barriers, uplifts communities, and proves that equality knows no borders. Batangas City’s story shows what happens when local action meets regional inspiration.”
The HERO Awards was organized by APCOM in partnership with APN+, APTN, and ILGA Asia.
