2009 Manila Pride Parade

With this year's theme "We dare, We care", groups of gays and lesbians marched with pride around Manila today to promote equal rights for all genders in the country.

The Pride March started in Remedios Circle in Malate, Manila around 5 pm and went around Roxas Boulevard, Pedro Gil, Ma. Orosa street and ended at Julio Nakpil street.

Various  groups like Ang Ladlad headed by Ateneo professor Danton Remoto, Akbayan headed by Congresswoman Riza Honteveros Baraquel, Gabriela, Onebacardi, Babaylan of the University of the Philippines, Galang, Katibonera, Ikatlo and the Commision of Human Rights joined the colorful march to show their stand and concern to inequality and human rights problems. 

According to a press release from Task Force Pride Philippines, The LGBT community marched to show their concern over the lack of human rights in the country. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) refused to accredit Ang Ladlad a partylist groups representing the LGBT community and the non-passage of the Anti-Discrimination Bill and the numerous incidence of violence and discrimination against the LGBT community due to their sexual orientation.

"I joined this march because this is where you can feel accepted. The Pride March makes you feel welcome no matter who you are" says a lesbian who refused to name herself.

"People who discriminates are just one good reason why we have this kind of parade or march and why we need to join this parade. I believe that whoever joins this parade is incredibly open minded and has a kind heart." she added.

The 2009 Manila Pride March was organized by the Task Force Pride Philippines or TFP, the official organizers of the annual LGBT Pride Parade in Manila and supported by the Commision of Human Rights.