IT WAS a celebration of unity and talent for the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) community of Victorias City after they gathered for a two-day activity last March 12 and 13, 2022.

Dubbed as “Victorias Pride 2022: A Vibrant Celebration of LGBTs’ Powerhouse Through Arts and Culture”, it speaks of their vision and mission which is to empower and harness each member wholistically in all forms of skills, talents, participation, teamwork and camaraderie, towards community involvement.

They also aimed at directing their purpose, teamwork and cooperation among members to strengthen the group, benefitting not only members but the community as well.

The celebration kicked off with a mass at the Our Lady of Victory Parish Church, followed by a Rainbow Parade featuring 15 Festival Queen participants and attended by LGBT members.

The caravan ended at Barangay 13 (Villa Victorias) with a series of activities – Festival Queen competition, skills events competition in makeup, body painting and poster making, volleyball championship and Larong Pinoy coconut relay.

On March 13, the first-ever LGBT Gala Night was held at the Victorias City Sports and Amusement Center inspired by the Hollywood MET gala theme, complete with a red carpet entrance for members and guests.

The program highlight was a production with 15 festivals and eight 8 Drag Queens finalists, where they presented dazzling and delightful performances.

At the end of the event, three were chosen to complete the Last Battle of Queens and selected the winner.

They also invited and gave special gifts to selected persons with disabilities (PWDs) and less fortunate LGBT members.

The “pagdumdum” segment gave posthumous recognition to LGBT members including artists, choreographers, dancers, and those who had a great contribution in the community.

The Top 10 Best Dressed of the night were chosen and all received cash prizes from Provincial Board Member Juvy Pepello.

Councilor Junb Bantug and mayoralty candidate Javi Benitez lauded the efforts of LGBTQ+ Community – Victorias City chapter in bringing together members for a common good and assured them of Team Asenso Victoriahanon support for their laudable community projects.