UNRC Remarks at the LOV3LABAN Pride Philippines Festival 2025

Magandang umaga sa inyong lahat! Good morning, everyone! 

It is my honor to stand here with you today and express the United Nations’ solidarity with LGBTQIA+ and other gender-diverse persons, allies, and community in this year’s Pride March.

The UN is committed to the principles of equality, inclusion, and the universal protection of human rights. Our work around the globe is guided by the belief that every person, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, is entitled to live in dignity and without fear.

I would like to thank and congratulate Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and the local government for their unwavering support to promote equality for all genders. I also thank the University of the Philippines for providing this literal safe space for everyone to be seen and heard.

In the Philippines and worldwide, we have witnessed the extraordinary contributions of LGBTQIA+ individuals in every sector—education, healthcare, arts, business, public service, and so many more. The progress that has been achieved is owed to the tireless efforts of advocates, community leaders, and the countless individuals - including all of you here who have raised their voices for justice. However,there is still much work to do to ensure that the rights of LGBTQIA+ people are recognized, respected, and protected—everywhere, for everyone.

The UN supports efforts to enact and implement comprehensive anti-discrimination policies, to expand access to justice, and to ensure that healthcare, education, and employment are truly inclusive. We call on all members of society—government officials, community leaders, businesses, educators, and families—to stand as allies, to challenge prejudice in all its forms, and to build bridges of understanding and respect.

This Pride march is a powerful symbol, but it is also a call to action. It urges us all to reflect: How can we, as individuals and as a society, do more to protect and support our LGBTQIA+ family, friends, and neighbors? How can we ensure that every child grows up free from fear, every worker enjoys safety and dignity, and every person can access justice, healthcare, and opportunity without stigma or discrimination?

Social change is built on countless acts of courage—on the willingness to listen, to learn, and to stand up for what is right. It is strengthened by the visibility of LGBTQIA+ people who refuse to be silenced, and by allies who use their voices to advocate for inclusion and love. 

The United Nations is honored to march beside you, to amplify your voices, and to champion your rights. We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to advancing policies and initiatives such as the SOGIE Equality Bill that protect the human rights of all Filipinos, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. We pledge to work with local partners to promote inclusive education, to support mental health and well-being, and to help create communities where diversity is celebrated as a source of strength.

Imagine a future where young people know they are valued, regardless of whom they love—where coming out is no longer a risk, but a moment of joy and acceptance. This future is within our reach. It will be shaped by the choices we make today—by the leaders who craft inclusive policies, by the communities that embrace diversity, and by the individuals who commit each day to treating others with kindness and respect.

To all LGBTQIA+ Filipinos, to allies, to families, and to every person who believes in the promise of equality: Know that you are seen, you are valued, and you are not alone. Your courage inspires us all. The United Nations stands with you in solidarity—not only during Pride, but every day of the year.

Happy Pride! Mabuhay!