Beneath Manila’s blazing sun, rainbows burst onto the scene as the Manila Pride Parade attracted an unprecedented crowd, transforming Quezon City into a energetic celebration of love, resistance, and sheer joy. This year’s Lov3Laban: Pride PH Festival exceeded all expectations, with more than 250,000 participants gathering at the University of the Philippines Diliman and its surroundings. This turnout surpassed previous records, including the 200,000 attendees in 2024 and the 110,752 from 2023, which made it Southeast Asia’s largest pride event at the time.
A Bigger Platform for Bigger Dreams
To accommodate the swelling numbers, organizers shifted the main festivities from Quezon Memorial Circle to the expansive grounds of UP Diliman, forging a strong partnership with the Quezon City government and UP administration. Mayor Joy Belmonte expressed her delight, marking it as the fourth collaboration with Pride PH Coalition, dedicated to advancing equality through policies that offer freedom and inclusivity. UP Chancellor Edgardo Carlo Vistan II welcomed everyone warmly: “It’s a place where individuals can express themselves without fear of judgment.”
Imagine the Pride Expo active with vendors, a parade winding through the city, Pride Night filled with music, and Pride villages springing to life everywhere. It’s more than just a celebration; it’s love laban, a heartfelt fight.
From Streets to Hearts: Stories That Resonate
Amongst the sparkle, meaningful conversations emerged. Participants like Leo described it as a “show of force,” with groups advocating for anti-discrimination laws, while children waved flags and aunties cheered them on. As one marcher put it: We’re striving for change, standing with other marginalized communities, indigenous people, workers, and jeepney drivers. Zeno, a trans voice, shared a poignant thought: “Sometimes it seems like we’re accepted, but it’s just tolerance.”
Remembering 2023’s outstanding 110,000 gathering at the Circle, with Sassa Gurl interesting the audience alongside Precious Paula Nicole and Ice Seguerra. In 2024, 200,000 people faced the elements for LoveLaban2Everyone. Now, the surge in 2025? A evidence to resilience, even as Stonewall Manila encountered riot gear just days before.
These parades aren’t mere settings for BINI fans or job fairs; they’re our resounding voice. From 1,500 marchers in 2012 to this massive wave, growth signifies progress. Yet, the SOGIE Bill is still pending, and trans rights remain uncertain. Still, amidst the sea of flags, we found belonging: laughter mingling with chants, pride-filled tears, and the cheers for a brighter future. Manila’s streets echoed the sentiment, “We’re here, and we’re growing stronger.” With sass, soul, and an unyielding spirit, this is our Pride.
