FIRST Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and the Office of House Speaker Martin Romualdez joined the members of the LGBTQIA+ in a heartwarming fete of solidarity and inclusivity for their PRIDE Month Celebration in Mandaluyong City.

The celebration was being held annually to raise awareness and call for equality and inclusivity in the sector.

The distribution of financial aid through the Ayuda Para sa Kapos Ang Kita Program (AKAP) highlighted the celebration. In a monumental effort to provide much-needed assistance, 5000 members of the LGBTQIA+ community received P5,000 each. This initiative underscored the administration’s commitment to fostering support for those in need.

The First Lady’s LAB for All— a medical services initiative in partnership with the Department of Health, was also brought to the celebration where members of the community and their families were able to access health services from the government.

The program Lab for All which translates to the provision of laboratory services to Filipinos has coincidentally translated to the LGBTQIA’s call for “Love for All”.

LGBTQIA+ Pilipinas President Dindin Tan expressed profound gratitude to Speaker Romualdez and First Lady Marcos, commending their steadfast support and dedication to the LGBTQIA+, citing that their “unwavering support has been instrumental in advancing our rights and ensuring that our voices are heard”.

“This financial aid is not just a monetary gesture; it is a powerful affirmation of their commitment to our community’s well-being and dignity,” Tan said.

Elwin Quintana, of Tondo, expressed his excitement and gratitude to First Lady and House Speaker Romualdez as he received their assistance for the first time.

“Maraming salamat po kay First Lady at House Speaker Romualdez. Ang programa na ito ay malaking tulong po sa akin, hindi lamang sa akin kundi sa lahat ng mga taga-Manila. Sana magtuloy-tuloy pa ang ganitong programa,” Quintana said in an interview.

Meanwhile, Mandaluyong Vice Mayor Minchie Abalos also shared her appreciation for the initiative, highlighting its significance in promoting equality.

“This program not only provides financial relief but also reinforces the importance of inclusivity and acceptance in our society,” Abalos remarked.

In addition, DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos also emphasized the program’s sustainability and future prospects under the current leadership.

“This initiative will continue to flourish under the leadership of President Marcos and Speaker Romualdez. Their dedication to the LGBTQIA+ community is evident, and we look forward to more progressive measures that support and uplift marginalized groups,” Secretary Abalos affirmed.