CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- Members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community from 15 barangays of San Fernando on Friday morning marched with pride in their colorful costumes through the busy streets here to voice their desire of freedom from discrimination and equality.

Siwala president Randy Ocampo said that even though he and his fellow LGBTs are different from the others, they all unite against discrimination and want to be accepted equally by society.

Mayor Edwin Santiago extended his congratulations to the LGBT community and said: “It doesn’t matter if your hair is long or you’re still young as a standing member of the LGBT community, you will always be accepted as one and will always be part of this city.”

The same sentiments were echoed by Vice Mayor Jimmy Lazatin who said that Pride Month is the time for self-affirmation, dignity and equality for the LGBT community.

Meanwhile, the pair from Barangay Dolores were proclaimed this year’s best costume awardees. They will be representing the LGBT community on June 12 for the city’s grand Independence Day parade.

The Mardi Gras parade is part of the city’s celebration of Pride Month this June.