First Stonewall Philippines March Calls for Passage of SOGIE Bill

The streets of Manila came alive this June 26 as the first-ever Stonewall Philippines march took center stage, a powerful, grassroots-led Pride event rooted in protest and passionate advocacy. Organized by Bahaghari and allied groups, this groundbreaking march drew LGBTQIA+ Filipinos and allies together for a day that was as much about bold visibility as it was about pressing for urgently needed reforms, with the SOGIE Equality Bill front and center in every chant and banner.
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Marching with Pride, and Purpose

Unlike mainstream Pride festivals, Stonewall Philippines radiated the spirit of activism that defined the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in the United States. At the heart of the rally was “Ang Liwanag ng Bahaghari” (The Light of the Rainbow), a stunning mural reminding everyone that Pride is rooted in resistance, and in fighting for freedom, equality, and respect.
See the ABS-CBN News coverage here

Pushing for SOGIE Equality

Bahaghari’s Chairperson and Stonewall Philippines founder, Reyna Valmores Salinas, addressed the energized crowd, emphasizing that Pride cannot be separated from the fight for equal rights. The urgent, recurring call? The passage of the SOGIE (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity or Expression) Equality Bill. This bill, long delayed in Congress, aims to protect every Filipino, regardless of SOGIE, from discrimination in schools, workplaces, public places, and beyond. For many marchers, it’s a matter of safety, dignity, and basic human rights.
Rolling Stone Philippines explores the march’s significance

Recognizing Our Roots

Stonewall Philippines also paid tribute to ‘Stonewall Manila,’ the 1994 rally that honored the original Stonewall Riots and sparked early organized LGBTQ+ advocacy in the country. Progressive groups, drag performers, and artists filled Mendiola Street with music, protest art, and impassioned speeches. For many attendees, this wasn’t just a party, it was a reminder that the struggle for acceptance and equality is far from over.
Context on recent activism from Wikipedia

Know Your Rights: The SOGIE Equality Bill

So, what exactly is at stake? The SOGIE Equality Bill would outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, a crucial protection for a country where many still face bullying, harassment, and economic disadvantage due to their identities. By marching, the community sends a clear message: it’s time for lawmakers to prioritize the bill and uphold every Filipino’s right to equality and respect. Need legal support or want to stay updated? Visit advocacy groups like Bahaghari and take part in the growing movement for justice!

Was this your first Pride march, or have you been marching for years? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below, let’s keep the spirit of Stonewall alive and ensure our voices ring out until equality is law.