PRIDE PH has finally released the long-awaited lineup for its upcoming event, “Love Laban 2 Everyone! Pride PH Festival 2024.”
This year, Love Laban 2 will be held on June 22 at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City. This event, which is in collaboration with the Quezon City government, has no entrance fee.
The event’s theme for 2024 is about fighting for everyone’s equal rights to live regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, creating a safe, supportive space for all involved.
At the first-ever Love Laban last year, Pride PH counted around 110,000 attendees, making it the biggest Pride event ever in Southeast Asia. This year, it’s estimated that over 150,000 to 200,000 people will join.
In total, there will be three events at the festival: The Pride Expo, Pride March, and Pride Night, so there’s much to look forward to this coming 22nd.
Don’t forget: Pride is a protest!
While it’s a hundred percent valid to fangirl over Pride PH’s lineup, it’s important to remember the reason why they held an event in the first place: to celebrate the queer community, and to provide a safe space for their members.
If possible, try to do some research on the history of the LGBTQ+ community in the Philippines, or find organizations that you can donate to.
Most importantly, remember that Pride is a protest.
At a press conference held by the Quezon City government and Pride PH, it was emphasized that this was more than just a celebration but also a call to action for equality and inclusivity.
Pride PH was also one of the 200 organizations who signed an open letter asking the Philippine president to certify the SOGIE (sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression) equality Bill as an urgent matter. It is something they continue to advocate for through events such as this.
“We are one with the community for the passage of the SOGIE equality bill,” said QC Mayor Joy Belmonte.
“Part of what we’re doing here is activism, our contribution to the fight towards finally the passage of this bill,” she said.
At present, members of the LGBTQ+ community in the Philippines continue to face abuse and discrimination for their gender identities. Since 2010, at least 50 transgender or nonbinary individuals have been killed.
This Pride Month, enjoy the festivities but don’t forget to fight for the LGBTQ+ community, whether you are an ally or a member of it. Fight for gender-inclusive bathrooms, for the passing of the SOGIE Bill, for basic human decency and kindness.
As you sing and dance to BINI’s “Pantropiko,” rave over Marina Summer’s deadly lipsyncing skills, or scream alongside Juan Karlos as he performs “Ere,” remember why Pride PH started this event in the first place – who Pride PH started this event for.
Remember to thank them and to never stop fighting for their rights.
