[Manila, Philippines] — Makati City came alive on July 27, 2024, as Mayor Abby Binay-Campos led the “Spread the Love, Makati!” event, a vibrant celebration of diversity, equality, and inclusion. From 10 AM to 9 PM, Makati Avenue and Barangay Poblacion were filled with enthusiastic participants who engaged in a variety of pocket events.
Spread the Love, Makati event featured discussions on inclusive development and cultural diversity, fostering a sense of community and shared understanding. The festivities culminated in a lively and colorful concert, bringing everyone together in a powerful display of joy and unity. Mayor Binay-Campos expressed her gratitude to all who attended, highlighting the event as a testament to Makati’s commitment to inclusivity and community spirit.
The day was further elevated by celebrity appearances and live performances that entertained and inspired the crowd.
We are here to celebrate love,” said Evangelista. “I like to share the stage with all of you. We are present and not at the farthest of reaching because every single one of us here bolds something very special in our hearts, something that is unique, a unique kind of spring that blossoms internally, and that is the sense of self. And we should celebrate it. We should hear it.” “In this world, they say love is intangible but indeed on this night, it has been made present because of all of you. We shall celebrate it and we shall champion it.” she ended.
Davila emphasized the importance of equality and inclusion, and that inequality affects many aspects of life. “Naysisinaula po ang inclusion, diversity, and the belief in equality sa ating mga tahanan (Inclusion, diversity, and the belief in equality start at home),” said the veteran.
Pride Consultant.
“Spread the Love, Makati!” kicked off with eye-opening talks on gender sensitivity, fighting discrimination, and LGBTQIA+ health, setting the stage for a day of learning and fun. Attendees got hands-on with workshops in drag makeup, styling, photography, and painting, making the event both creative and educational.
The party then spilled onto the streets with a colorful fiesta, featuring a lively march with LGBTQIA+ and ally groups. The celebration was amped up with electric performances by the Intensity Dancers, DJ sets by Moira Lang and Dignos, and an energetic vogue session led by Nunoy Revlon and his dancers.
The event also offered attendees a day filled with insightful talks and engaging workshops. The lineup included compelling discussions by Janlee Dungca on SOGIESC, Benedict Bernabe on the health needs of the LGBTQIAP+ community, Chris Eugenio on Pride in Business, and Mori Rodriguez on understanding internal discrimination. These sessions provided valuable perspectives and fostered a deeper understanding of crucial issues.
In addition to the thought-provoking talks, the event featured interactive workshops led by experts such as Tiny Deluxe, who offered a Drag Makeup Tutorial and Styling, and Niccolo Cosme, who guided participants through Photography and Painting. Styled by Leeroy New, the event combined meaningful dialogue with creative activities, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for everyone involved.
Event Highlights: Spread the Love, Makati! Talks, Panel Discussions, Workshops
Morning Talks:
- Understanding SOGIESC: The Importance of Gender Sensitivity and the Call for
the Passage of the SOGIE Equality Bill
- Moderator: Janlee Dungca
- Panelists:
- Jake Rol, PANTAY Project Officer
- Jap Ignacio, LAGABLAB Secretary-General
- Ross Tugade, UP College of Law Senior Lecturer
- Venue: St. Giles Hotel
2. Differentiated Care: Understanding the Health Needs of the LGBTQIAP+
Community
- Moderator: Benedict Bernabe
- Panelists:
- Dr. Lia Bernardo, PhD (Atma Prema Wellbeing Group)
- Dr. Quincy Raya (Raya Clinic)
- Dr. Deano Reyes (Hara Clinic)
- Venue: Coro Hotel
3. Pride in Business: The Journey from Awareness to Allyship
- Moderator: Chris Eugenio
- Panelists:
- Bobby Batungbacal Executive Director Makati Business Club (MBC)
- Itchi Yabut , Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Officer,
Makati City - Junie Del Mindi, Chairman and CEO EON Group
- Weena Ekid, Chairman of PFIP representing PFIP/inclusive companies
- Venue l: City Garden Grand Hotel
4. Drag Makeup Tutorial & Styling Workshop by Tiny Deluxe
- Venue: Berjaya Hotel
5. Photography and Painting Workshop by Niccolo Cosme
- Venue: Hoesiki, 3-5pm
6. Understanding Internal Discrimination Within the LGBTQIA+ Community in the
Philippines
- Moderator: Mori Rodriguez
- Panelists: Ruel Bayani, Milo Sogueco, Gitri San Diego
- Venue: I’M Hotel, 12-2pm
