Panel Power: Queer MSMEs Claim Their Place in QC’s Inclusive Economy

Rainbow flags aren’t just waving at Quezon Memorial Circle this Pride Month, they’re flying high over the very heart of Quezon City’s economy. On June 17, 2025, the city burst with anticipation as final touches were set for a historic event: the first-ever LGBTIQ+ Business Summit, a bold stage for queer micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to step into the spotlight and shape an economy that finally recognizes their contributions. The city’s parks bloomed with color, echoing the hopeful energy of queer business owners and their allies, as workers adorned the Quezon Memorial Circle with active umbrellas, a promise that inclusion isn’t just a slogan, but a living, breathing part of QC’s everyday.

Building futures, not just businesses

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, beaming with her signature mix of resolve and warmth, made it clear that this summit isn’t a one-off party, it’s a game-changer anchored on the theme “Building an Inclusive Future: Quezon City as an LGBTIQ+ Business-Friendly City.” Backed by the Philippine LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Mindanao Pride, Intersex Philippines, and SPARK! Philippines, with support from the Wellspring Philanthropic Fund and Humanis Foundation’s Free to Be Me program, the event creates a safe, proud platform for queer entrepreneurs to share their journeys, dreams, and innovations as reported in Manila Bulletin.

Inclusive economy, unstoppable pride

“What does real Pride mean?” Mayor Belmonte asked, voice steady with conviction during her announcement. “We bring joy when things get heavy, offer hope when the road gets rough, and stand as unwavering allies, every gender, every dream, every color of the rainbow.” This philosophy pulses through every city program, from “Pangkabuhayang QC” livelihood grants to one of the country’s most progressive Gender and Development Codes, ensuring that MSMEs, and the queer folks who power them, aren’t just visible but truly empowered as highlighted in The Manila Times.

Voices centerstage: From struggle to success

The summit’s panels promise heartfelt testimonies and strategy sessions, from bakla-owned cafes finding their crowd in Cubao, to trans-led tech startups challenging stereotypes. It’s a celebration, yes, but it’s also a rallying cry: Queer MSMEs are here, they’re thriving, and they’re integral to QC’s pulse. Allies, advocates, and every color on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum are invited to join, listen, and learn.

Pride, profit, and promise

This summit marks not just an event, but the embodiment of Quezon City’s vision for an inclusive economy, one that doesn’t just tolerate difference, but champions it. As QC decks its streets with color and opens its doors wider than ever, queer entrepreneurs are finally claiming the panel power, and the economic future, they’ve always deserved.