MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday reaffirmed his support to the country’s LGBTQIA+ community, reiterating that every one, regardless of background, “deserves dignity”.
In his message for Pride Month, Marcos said the observance honors “the courage of those who refused to be excluded
or denied their rightful place 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,” he 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.
The president further noted that inclusivity must not just be about mere words. Inclusion, he stressed, must also be “reflected in our policies, strengthened by our institutions,
and practiced in our everyday actions as a people.”
“The LGBTQIA+ Community has long helped shape our country's progress
through its talent, service, and leadership. To overlook these contributions is
to deny an essential part of the Filipino story,” Marcos said.
“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,” he added.
