In marking the diversity and harmony of the rainbow community, the Provincial Government of Cavite successfully hosted a two-leg Pride Month Caravan, dubbed โPride Without Borders”, on August 16 and 26, 2025 in the municipalities of Amadeo and Maragondon, bringing together multifaceted members of LGBTQIA+, leaders, and advocates.
The Pride Month Caravan began its first-leg in Brgy. Dagatan Covered Court, Amadeo, with Mayor Jose โJojoโ Domingo Jr., Councilor Michelle Ricalde, Barangay Chairperson Joel Panganiban, and Ms. Precyl Ramos from the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer graced the event, putting forward their shared goals of fostering inclusivity and acceptance for the sector.
Mr. Paul John Profeta, Amadeo LGBTQIA+ President, set the tone with his message, stressing the value of respect and empathy shown to every gender.
Likewise, Hon. Jojo Domingo expressed his hope for openness and understanding among his constituents, saying โSana po sa bayan ng Amadeo, magkaroon po tayo ng openness. Bigyan ng panahon ang mga sarili para makilala ang isa’t isa”. He, then, acknowledged and lauded the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ sector in their municipality.
Following, Dr. Melinda Villanueva of Amadeo Rural Health Unit provided a lecture on Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), tackling the phases and prevention, and dispelling the myths and misconceptions about its transmission. She also added the importance of community awareness and support in combating the virus.
Thereafter, Mr. Leo Vidallon, a proud LGBTQIA+ member, shared his success story and reminded the youth members to embrace their true selves.
“Para sa mga kabataang LGBTQIA+ at mga nangangarap, hindi ninyo kailangang baguhin ang inyong sarili para magtagumpay. Hindi ninyo kailangang pilitin ang sarili sa kung anuman. Hindi ninyo kailangang itago ang katotohanan. Kailangan ninyong maging matapang upang maging ikaw”, Mr. Vidallo emphasized.
On the second leg, held at Maragondon Municipal Covered Court, the program commenced with Mr. Mark Reden Digma, Officer-in-Charge of MSWDO-Maragondon, appreciating the presence of everyone at the event that made the celebration possible. It was followed by Municipal Councilor Carlo Gestiada’s message of gratitude for the collective effort of the province in creating a space of inclusivity for the LGBTQIA+ members.
Subsequently, on behalf of Governor Abeng Remulla, Ms. Ekeiko Sadang, Division Chief of Community Based Operations Division, conveyed an inspirational message, reminding everyone of their worth regardless of their gender.
“Ito ay isang pagpapatunay na ang ating kasarian ay hindi hadlang upang tayo ay magkaroon ng importansya sa ating bayan. Make your presence felt and known”, she stressed as she encouraged the members to actively participate in such programs.
Ms. Haydelisa Maderazo, Provincial HIV Program Coordinator, then, discussed the HIV, AIDS and STI presentation, raising awareness of its differences, prevention and control. She also encouraged the participants to take the screening test to ensure the health and wellness of everyone, even those outside the LGBTQIA+ sector.
Another success story was featured with Mr. Lorraniel Chris Victoriano, a LGBTQIA+ member working as a government employee at the MSWDO-Maragondon, sharing his journey towards success and inculcating a sense of courage in the participants in pursuing their desired dream.
“Ang pagiging successful natin has no gender, no boundaries, no orientation. Success is possible for anyone who dares to dream and works for it”, he stated.
The two-leg caravan was an avenue of inclusivity, acceptance and equality. It offered various services from various agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry-Cavite, Office of the Provincial Health Officer, Office of the Provincial Public Employment Service Manager, Office of the Provincial Cooperatives Development Officer, Office of the Provincial Legal Officer and Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, to empower all genders in the province of Cavite.
