Koronadal City, Philippines — The City Government of Koronadal has officially designated the month of June as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month through a newly approved ordinance by the Sangguniang Panlungsod, marking a significant step toward inclusivity and equal rights.
The ordinance, authored by City Councilors John Rey “Chow” Rodriguez and Ma. Ester M. Catorce, aims to promote the rights, dignity, and well-being of all individuals—regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.
In his address, Councilor Rodriguez emphasized that the ordinance is not only a celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community but also a formal recognition that everyone deserves respect and equal treatment.
“In Koronadal City, everyone has a place, everyone has rights, and everyone matters. You are not alone,” Rodriguez declared.
The ordinance mandates the local government to allocate funding for programs and activities during Pride Month. These include public information campaigns, health and wellness services, livelihood training, and other support initiatives centered on diversity and inclusion.
This legislation also serves to reinforce the city’s anti-discrimination policies, providing a framework for long-term support and protection for LGBTQIA+ individuals and advocating for a more inclusive society.
With this landmark measure, Koronadal becomes one of the growing number of cities in the Philippines formally recognizing Pride Month and affirming the principle that equality, respect, and acceptance are fundamental rights for all.