Pabuhagay to cap LGBT pride week festivities; 500 to join march

At least 500 individuals from different Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) organizations in Cebu City are expected to join today’s (June 23) localized pride march called “Pabuhagay.”

Magdalena Robinson, officer-in-charge of the Anti-Discrimination Commission (ADC), said that the “Pabuhagay” would be the culmination of this week’s Cebu City Pride Week.

The LGBT group has described the Pabuhagay as a platform to fight for gender equality and a cry for the approval of the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity or Expression (SOGIE) Equality Bill in the Senate.

“It’s an advocacy event for the LGBTs to express themselves. As well as a call for the passage of the National Anti-Discrimination Law, which is the SOGIE Equality Bill which have not been passed in the Senate,” she said.

Aside from that it is also a celebration and a voice for the LGBT community.

Robinson also described the event as a festivity of their own culture, to showcase their own tongue called swardspeak or “ila-ilab,” to flaunt their creativity, flamboyance and distinct expressions.

“That’s why we want to show people our uniqueness,” said Robinson.

During Pride Week, the LGBT group conducted SOGIE synthesization for call center supervisors, human resource personnel and city employees.

Aside from that the group is also planning to launch the Inclusive Restroom Safe Space Campaign this month.

The “Pabuhagay” or pride march today (June 23) will start at Fuente Osmeña Circle at 3 p.m. and will end at the Plaza Sugbo where a small program will be held. / Laksmi Cañedo, CNU Intern