President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equal protection, opportunity, and respect for all Filipinos as the country marked Pride Month, saying no one should be left behind because of their identity, gender, or whom they love.
In his Pride Month message, Marcos recognized the struggle of the LGBTQIA+ community and those who fought for acceptance, dignity, and equal treatment in society.
“It reminds us that the freedoms and recognition enjoyed today were not freely given; they were won through struggle, sacrifice, and the belief that every person deserves dignity,” Marcos said.
“As we celebrate Pride Month, the government reaffirms a principle that must never waver: every Filipino is entitled to equal protection, equal opportunity, and equal respect under the law,” he added.
Marcos said equality should go beyond public statements and must be reflected in government policies, institutions, and everyday treatment of citizens.
The President also acknowledged the contributions of LGBTQIA+ Filipinos to national development, citing their role in public service, leadership, the arts, business, education, and other sectors.
He said their contributions form part of the country’s story and should not be ignored or diminished.
“Let this observance send a clear message: no Filipino should ever be made to feel invisible in the country they help build. No one should ever be forced to conceal who they are in order to earn acceptance and understanding,” Marcos said.
He said a just and progressive nation must allow every person to live with security, purpose, and belonging, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
“For the true measure of a just and progressive nation lies in how fully it allows every person to live with security, purpose, and belonging,” Marcos said.
“As we forge a Bagong Pilipinas, let us move forward together with compassion, respect, and courage. Let us stand united in defending the welfare of every Filipino and in creating a future where no one is left behind because of who they are, how they identify, or whom they love,” he added.
Pride Month is observed every June to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall uprising in New York City, which became a major turning point in the modern LGBTQIA+ rights movement.