A Year of Philippine LGBTIQ+ Milestones

 In 2024, the situation of LGBTIQ+ communities in the world remains to be a complex mix of progress and setbacks. In many Western nations, LGBTQ+ rights have continued to advance, with more countries legalizing same-sex marriage, improving anti-discrimination laws, and increasing representation in politics and media, including the Best Actress win of Spanish actress Karla Sofía Gascón, which was shared together with her co-stars in Emilia Pérez, at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, making history by being the first openly trans actor to win a major prize at the prestigious festival. Additionally, the continuing success of Rupaul’s Drag Race and its international franchise substantially contributed to awareness and the mainstreaming of the queer creative expression of drag.

Furthermore, countries such as Canada, the Netherlands, and Spain have reinforced their commitment to equality through inclusive policies and protections for transgender individuals. The United States has seen both progress and challenges, with some states enacting protective laws while others introduce restrictive legislation targeting transgender rights. 

Marriage equality has been achieved in several parts of the world such as Estonia, Aruba, Curaçao, Greece, and Thailand, which became the first Southeast Asian country to legally recognize same-sex marriages and the third territory in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, after Taiwan and Nepal.

However, in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, LGBTIQ+ communities continue to face discrimination, criminalization, and violence. Uganda, for example, passed harsh anti-LGBTQ+ laws in 2023, and other nations maintain or strengthen their restrictions. Russia has expanded its anti-LGBTQ+ propaganda laws, making it increasingly dangerous for activists and individuals to live openly.

Despite these challenges, global advocacy efforts remain strong. LGBTIQ+ Pride events, social media activism, and legal battles push for equal rights worldwide. The fight for LGBTIQ+ equality continues, highlighting both victories and the need for continued activism.

            In the Philippines, LGBTIQ+ situation in 2024 has experienced progress, while still facing challenges. SOGIESC Equality Bill has still not been signed, but ordinances penalizing discrimination based on gender were in development in several towns and cities.

This rundown of notable Philippine LGBTIQ+ events and developments in 2024 is part of my ongoing project of writing a timeline of Philippine LGBTIQ+ history.

 

January 18, 2024: Second season of ‘Drag Den’

         Pioneering Filipino drag competition and reality series, Drag Den, aired its second season. Created and directed by Rod Singh, Drag Den 2 premiered on January 18, 2024, on Amazon Prime Video and streamed weekly until 7 March. Manila Luzon returned as host and main judge, with Sassa Gurl and Nicole Cordoves serving as co-judges. Produced by Cornerstone Studios and Project 8 Projects, the second season featured ten contestants competing—Deja, Mrs. Tan, Moi, Feyvah Fatalé, Russia Fox, Margaux, Jean Vilogue, Elvira, Marlyn and Maria Lava. Twenty-two-year old queen from Baguio City, Deja emerged as the winner, earning the title of the "Filipino's Next Drag Supreme,” while Mrs. Tan and Moi were the runners-up.

 

February 9, 2024: Marina Summers competes in Series 2 of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK vs The World’ 

         Twenty-six-year-old drag performer and Drag Race Philippines Season 1 runner-up Marina Summers became the first Filipino to compete in RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK vs The World, a spin-off of the popular RuPaul's Drag Race. She was one of the 11 contestants competing in Series 2, which aired from February 9 to March 29, 2024, and finished in third place.

 

February 29, 2024: Pura Luka Vega arrested again

Drag artist Pura Luka Vega was arrested again by police in Manila on February 29, 2024 for three counts of “immoral doctrines, obscene publications and exhibitions and indecent shows.” She was arrested for the same charges in October 2023. Vega received enormous backlash after a video of her drag performance, mimicking an image of Jesus Christ and dancing to a remix of "Ama Namin,” was posted on social media in June 2023. Several places declared her persona non grata and cases filed against her in the biggest public persecution of an LGBTIQ+ person for perceived religious offense in the Philippines.

Artists and fellow drag performers decried the continued persecution. Concerned Artists of the Philippines released a statement on 1 March condemning the repeated arrest.

“This pattern of harassment raises serious concerns for the artistic freedom of individuals within the LGBTQ+ community,” they said. “It is disheartening to witness the persistent efforts to curtail Pura’s artistic expression. The broader implications of these arrests are chilling to our artistic community. These hate-based attacks and weaponization of the law not only undermine the fundamental rights of Pura Luka Vega but also impoverish and disempower the art community at large.”

“We urge authorities to reconsider their actions and uphold the principles of freedom of expression, recognizing the importance of a diversity of expression within the arts sector,” the organization emphasized. “We stand united in demanding the immediate release of Pura and affirming the right of every individual to express themselves creatively without fear of persecution.”

 

June 14, 2024: Launch of Equality Alliance

         The Equality Alliance, the broadest coalition of more than 200 LGBTQ+ organizations, private sector representatives, youth groups, religious formations and other allied groups in the Philippines, was launched, led by PANTAY, Lagablab LGBT Network, Bahaghari, Pride PH, LGBT Pilipinas, Inc., and congresswoman Geraldine Roman. This was an effort to further promote and push the SOGIESC Equality Bill and urge the president to certify the bill as urgent.

 

June 18, 2024: ‘Pabuhagay’ in Bohol 

         The exhibit “Pabuhagay” was mounted from June 18 to 29 at Alta Citta Mall in Tagbilaran City, featuring works by eighteen LGBTIQ+ Boholano artists—Marvin Ablao, Ameril Ampatua, Gil Ctlr, F Jordan Carnice, Thirdy Cuadra, John Oliver, Janelle Jumarito, Yoyo Cabahug, John Dave Aceberos Raña, Jumjum Ouano, Ryard Josh Adorable, Daneel Potot, Clijster Aile Oguis, Giancarlo Accardi, HJ Raneses, Maria Isabel Café, Rezi Pitaya, Inday Noa, and Ren Paragados. This marked the very first time the provincial government of Bohol held an event to celebrate LGBTIQ+ Pride Month in the Central Visayan island province. 

 

June 22 and 30, 2024: Biggest LGBTIQ+ Pride event in Asia 

Love Laban 2 Everyone: Pride PH Festival and affiliated Pride events in different parts of the country drew a cumulative total of 228,000 attendees, making it the largest Pride event in Asia in terms of attendance. Love Laban 2 Everyone: Pride PH Festival was held on 22 June at the Quezon Memorial Circle, with an estimated crowd size of about 212,000 attendees, but was cut short because of heavy rains. A second Pride event, Love Laban 2 Everyone! Happy Equality: Araw ng Pasasalamat, was held on June 30, drawing about 27,000 attendees. Affiliated Pride events held simultaneously with Love Laban 2 Everyone: Pride PH Festival were Iloilo Pride Pyesta 2024 in Iloilo City, Iloilo, with about 6,000 attendees; Northern Luzon Pride in Baguio City, with about 4,000 attendees; Iligan Pride 2024 in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, with about 1,000 attendees; Catarman Pride in Catarman, Northern Samar, with about 500 attendees; Quirino Pride in the province of Quirino with about 300 attendees; and Magsaysay Pride in Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental, with about 50 attendees. Other affiliated Pride events were Mindanao Pride in Cagayan de Oro City on 30 June, with about 3,000 attendees, and Ladlad Caraga in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, on 29 June, with about 1,000 attendees. Other affiliated Pride events were Mindanao Pride in Cagayan de Oro City, held on June 30, with about 3,000 attendees, and Ladlad Caraga in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, held on June 29, with about 1,000 attendees.

 

June 22, 2024: Amsterdam Rainbow Dress arrives in the Philippines

The wearable art installation, the Amsterdam Rainbow Dress, made a stop in the Philippines, a first for Southeast Asia. It was at the Love Laban 2 Everyone: Pride PH Festival on June 22 and was on display at the mall TriNoma on June 25 and 26 in Quezon City. It was worn by Vice Ganda for an art photography shoot. The installation is a dress made of the national flags from countries where being LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ+ acts are illegal, punishable by imprisonment, torture or even death. It aims to raise awareness on the global struggle of the marginalized community and to advocate for acceptance and equal rights.

 

June 24, 2024: New television series on queer youth

Marahuyo Project, television series on queer youth, premiered. Produced by Anima Studios, the eight-episode series was created and directed by JP Habac, with Benson Logronio and Juvy Galamiton as main writers. Starring Adrian Lindayag and Neo France Garcia, Marahuyo Project follows a group students as they face challenges in establishing their university's first LGBTIQ+ organization in a coastal town. The series was released on the Anima Studios’ YouTube channel for free, beginning with two episodes (“Amihan” and “Dios Buhawi”). Episodes 3 (“Sidapa at Bulan”) and 4 (“Santelmo”) were released on June 26, Episodes 5 (“Hunyango”) and 6 (“Sirena”) on June 28, and Episodes 7 (“Aswang”) and 8 (“Babaylan”) on June 30.

 

June 26, 2024: Second season of ‘Sparks Camp’

         The second season of Sparks Camp, a gay dating reality series produced by Black Sheep and ABS-CBN Studios, began streaming on Black Sheep’s YouTube channel. 

 

June 15, 22 and 29, 2024: Metro Manila Pride

The Metro Manila Pride organization was not able to hold a march and concert, and instead held a series of small events throughout the month such as “Hangout, Coffee, and Chill” on June 15 in Makati City; “Resbaklaan,” a talent show, on June 22 in Makati City; “Pride Piknik,” a potluck and film viewing event, which also showcased several performances, at the Rizal Park Open-Air Auditorium in Manila, on June 29. Their slogan for the LGBTIQ+ Pride Month celebration was “Resbak Na! Iisang Laban Para sa Karapatan at Kulayaan.”

 

June 29, 2024: Philippine LGBTQ Icon Awards

         Five LGBTIQ+ individuals and allies were honored at the third Philippine LGBTQ Icon Awards, held on June 29, during the 13th Annual Philippine Pride Party in Marilao, Bulacan. Honorees were actor Adrian Lindayag, who received the Young People’s Champion Award for his dedication to queer visibility in media; singer-songwriter Ice Seguerra who received the Trans Trailblazer Award for his efforts in paving the way for other trans artists in the entertainment industry; drag queen Marina Summers who received the Beacon of Representation Award for upholding LGBTIQ+ excellence in the international stage; human rights advocate and lawyer Chel Diokno, who received the Ally for Change Award for his support of the SOGIESC Equality Bill; and former vice president Leni Robredo, who received the Icon of the Year for her personal advocacy for equality, outspokenness against discrimination, and the impactful programs and initiatives of Angat Buhay that support the Filipino LGBTIQ+ community.

Organized by HIV awareness and LGBTIQ+ rights organization The Red Whistle and O Bar Philippines, the Philippine LGBTQ Icon Awards recognizes pioneers, trailblazers, and allies of the LGBTIQ+ community, who have shown dedication to representation, support for equality and change, and advocacy against discrimination.

 

July 21, 2024: The Jude Bacalso incident

         Transgender personality Jude Bacalso came under fire after a photo showing her allegedly berating a waiter in a restaurant in Cebu City, Cebu, circulated in social media. Bacalso said she was lecturing the waiter, who was seen standing, on gender sensitivity after calling her “sir.” Social media reactions were a mix of condemnations for the harsh treatment and transphobic comments. The waiter filed charges against Bacalso for just vexation, grave scandal, grave coercion, grave threats, and slight illegal detention.

 

July 27, 2024; Makati City’s first Pride event

         The city government of Makati City spearheaded a LGBTIQ+ Pride event for the first time in collaboration with several LGBTIQ+ groups. “Spread the Love, Makati!” held in the barangay of Poblacion, featured talks, workshops, street performances, a fair, a main show and after-parties. Several celebrities and government officials graced the event to express support to the community. 

 

July 27, 2024: The first out LGBTIQ+ flag bearer of the Philippine Olympic team

Boxer Nesthy Petecio is the first out LGBTIQ+ flag bearer of the Philippine team at the Olympics. Together with Carlo Paalam, she bore the flag during opening ceremony of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France. The country celebrated its 100 years of participation at the Olympics. She was also the flag bearer during the closing ceremony of the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. 

The Paris Olympics had the most number of out LGBTIQ+ athletes at 193 so far, according to website Outsports, breaking 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics’ record of 186. 

 

July 31, 2024: The first out transgender Filipino to compete at the Olympics

         Twenty-nine-year-old Kalinga boxer Hergie Bacyadan is the first out transgender Filipino to compete at the Olympics. Despite being a transgender man, he competed in the women’s 75-kilogram division on his Olympic debut in Paris. He and American runner Nikki Hiltz are the first trans persons to compete at the Olympics.

 

August 2024: First telehealth app to cater to LGBTIQ+ patients

         KonsultaMD became the first telehealth app in the Philippines to offer Inclusive Care feature for LGBTIQ+ persons, promising safe space with doctors trained in SOGIESC, gender sensitivity, motivational counseling and understanding and addressing specific health needs of the community. The program was in partnership with the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief and the USAID’s Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control Project. 

 

August 7, 2024: Third season of ‘Drag Race Philippines’ 

         The third season of Drag Race Philippines premiered on August 7. Produced by World of Wonder, this season of the Philippine version of the hugely popular RuPaul’s Drag Race aired on HBO Go in Philippines and on WOW Presents Plus internationally. It featured 11 contestants—Maxie, Khianna, Angel, Tita Baby, Zymba Ding, Myx Chanel, Popstar Bench, John Fedellaga, J Quinn, Yudipota and Versex. During the finale on 9 October, Maxie was declared the winner, while Khianna was the runner-up. Versex was named Miss Congeniality.

 

August 8, 2024: The first out LGBTIQ+ Filipino athlete to win two Olympic medals

Boxer Nesthy Petecio won a bronze medal in the women’s 57-kilogram boxing of the 2024 Paris Olympics, becoming the first out LGBTIQ+ athlete from the Philippines to win two Olympic medals. The 2020 Tokyo Olympics silver medalist is also the first Filipino to win two Olympic medals in boxing, the first Filipino to win an Olympic medal in women's boxing and the fourth Filipino to win two Olympic medals.

 

August 27, 2024: Dolores in Eastern Samar passed an anti-discrimination ordinance

         The Anti-Discrimination Ordinance for People of Diverse Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, authored by councilor Mae Almazan, was passed in the municipality of Dolores in Eastern Samar. It aims to provide protection for LGBTIQ+ people against gender-based discrimination and violence.

 

September 6, 2024: First Filipino children’s book on intersexuality

         The first Filipino children’s book on intersexuality was published and released. Published by Intersex Philippines, Ang Aking Espesyal na Regalo (My Special Gift) by Jeff Cagandahan, with illustrations by Adrian J. and Gumi F., tells the story of how an intersex child embraces and celebrates their identity and sex characteristics. The author and illustrators are also involved of the storybook Interconnected, published by Intersex Asia in Taiwan on July 11, 2024.

 

October 19, 2024: First national pageant for butch lesbians and transgender men

            Tomboy Philippines, the first national beauty pageant for butch lesbians and transgender men, held its grand coronation event on 19 October at the Music Museum in San Juan City. Spearheaded by Chit Reyes and Cowee Santos, it was launched on 14 September, presenting 30 candidates. Gellie Pablo from Navotas won the title. The runners-up were Phao Faraon from Malabon City (first); Armi de Leon from Morong, Rizal (second); Keith Martin from General Santos City (third); and JC Lapitan from Batangas City, Batangas (fourth).

 

October 25, 2024: Third Bahaghari Awards

         Third Bahaghari Awards, organized by the Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP), recognized several individuals, companies and groups for their contributions to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and belongingness in the workplace at the awarding ceremony in Taguig City. Vice Ganda, IloIlo City Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs, Quezon City’s Right to Care Card Team (Quezon City Gender and Development Council and MullenLowe TREYNA) were hailed as Bahaghari Champions. Also honored were EnGendeRights (Pride Advocacy of the Year), Vice Ganda (PFIP's Choice for LGBTQ+ Role Model of the Year), senator Risa Hontiveros (PFIP's Choice for Ally of the Year), Accenture in the Philippines (Company of the Year), IBM EAGLE ASEAN and Korea Business Resource Group (Pride Network of the Year), Coy Macaspac-Ordonez of Northern Trust (Executive Ally of the Year), and Tere Claudio of Sun Life Global Solutions (LGBTQ+ Leader of the Year).

 

November 29, 2024: Updating of dress code policy in government offices

         The Civil Service Commission has officially updated its dress code, allowing government employees to dress in accordance to their gender identity and expression. The progressive development aligns with PFIP’s LGBTQ+ Inclusion in the Workplace Playbook, which highlights the importance of gender-inclusive dress codes in creating safe, supportive spaces. This policy applies to all government offices, local units, and state universities.

 

December 3, 2024: Fifth Ripple Awards

         The fifth Ripple Awards honored three advocates—Marvi Rebueno-Trudeau, who received the Global Advocate Award, “for her outstanding work in the Philippines that gained global attention and sharpen focus on innovative testing methods and combination prevention;” Ian Felix Alquiros, who received the Advocate of the Year Award, for making “significant strides in the HIV/AIDS advocacy landscape, transcending arts to amplify the cause and many more;” and Toni Gee Fernandez, who received the Community Advocate Award, for demonstrating “exceptional dedication to communities, building safe spaces for PLHIVs, LGBTQIA+, and Mindanaoans, inspiring more communities to do the same.” The awarding ceremony was held during Love Gala: Eternal Elegance — A Night of Timeless Love, a charity event in observance of World AIDS Day, on 3 December 2024 in Taguig City.

         Organized by LoveYourself PH, an organization focused on HIV/AIDS awareness and LGBTIQ+ health, the Ripple Awards recognize individuals “whose unwavering commitment and exceptional contributions have significantly advanced the HIV/AIDS advocacy.” 

December 16, 2024: Zig Dulay and Gab Mejia among TOYM awardees

         LGBTIQ+ artists—filmmaker Zig Dulay and photographer, multimedia artist, and environmental engineer Jose Gabriel “Gab” Mejia—were among the 2024 awardees of The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM), which recognizes Filipinos between 18 and 40 years old “who have made exceptional contributions to their respective fields and communities.” Also, beauty queen and LGBTIQ+ ally Pia Wurtzbach was also honored in the field of humanitarian service and social work.

 

December 31, 2024: Nectar Nightclub closes

Nectar Nightclub, an LGBTIQ-friendly bar at The Fort Strip, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, closed down. It opened in October 2016, and upgraded in September 2019, serving as a safe space and venue for queer expressions. It was also influential in the growth of drag in the Philippines.

The Philippines’ Biggest Arts Fest Welcomes Nearly 60,000 Attendees

The special lighting on the facade of the CCP main building for the Pasinaya Festival (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

About 60,000 people flocked to the 2025 Pasinaya: The CCP Open House Festival. And with its two-day schedule brimming with events and activities, involving numerous artists, performers, cultural workers and volunteers, it remains to be the Philippines’ largest arts festival.   

            The total audience number was pegged at 58,417, as revealed by Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) vice president and artistic director Dennis N. Marasigan during "Pagdiriwang," the closing program of the festival, showing an increase from last year’s count of 50,626. Attendees in Pasinaya Festival’s regional legs have seen dramatic increase.

            The regional celebrations started last year with Iloilo City, Iloilo, in partnership with the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art, and Tagum City in Davao del Norte with the Musikahan sa Tagum Foundation, Inc. This year, three more sites were added—Batangas City in Batangas, Himamaylan in Negros Occidental and Sorsogon City in Sorsogon. The five sites were able to attract 20,044 attendees. These regional events were held simultaneously on February 1 and 2, 2025, together with the main celebration at the CCP Complex in Pasay City with extensions at the Circuit Makati in Makati City and in Manila.

“For CCP Pasinaya, we will continue to make this festival bigger, better, and brighter for everyone. Since 2005, CCP Pasinaya has always been a safe space for both our artists and our audiences. It is the best platform to showcase world-class talents and encourage arts education and appreciation,” said CCP president Kaye Tinga during the opening program called “Panimula” at the CCP Front Lawn.

“Panimula,” which showcased several performances, was also graced by Marasigan; National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) chairman Victorino Mapa Manalo; Teresita Calixto-Robles, chairperson of the Pasay Culture and Arts Council; CCP vice president for Administration Jose Victor Gaite; and head of the NCCA Subcommission on the Arts Arvin Villalon.

The year’s theme, “Para sa Lahat!” (For all!), articulated the festival’s aim to embrace and engage as many people as possible to explore, support, and celebrate the arts. To make it more accessible, the CCP enabled the attendees to enjoy all features as they can for a one-time donation of any amount.

“Ang CCP Pasinaya ay talagang para sa lahat (is really for everyone). We go above and beyond to bring CCP Pasinaya to more and more parts of the country so everyone can experience the magic of this one-of-a-kind festival. Our dream is to have CCP Pasinaya in every town, in every city in our country,” Tinga added.

            Conceptualized by former CCP vice president and artistic director Chris Millado, the Pasinaya Festival was meant to give audiences a sneak peek at the year’s offerings of the CCP resident companies. Over the years, it welcomed other cultural groups and has become an overall celebration of the different fields of art and of National Arts Month.

“CCP Pasinaya is the official kick-off of National Arts Month, marking the start of a nationwide celebration of Philippine arts and culture….As the first major event of Arts Month, CCP Pasinaya sets the stage for a series of activities that aim to make the arts more accessible to the public, fostering a deeper cultural appreciation across the country. Join us in celebrating our shared history, heritage, and culture,” Tinga said.

Manalo lauded CCP for continuously holding the Pasinaya Festival and other programs despite budget constraints and the ongoing rehabilitation of its iconic main building. 

CCP invited volunteers to mount Pasinaya Festival, a way to partly address minimized funding and encourage the spirit of volunteerism. A total of 1,405 staff members and volunteers worked on this year’s festival.

Manalo also praised CCP for gathering different performing and cultural groups, some of which would be performing in a national event for the first time, from all over the country. He enthused that the festival is a good platform for young artists to showcase their works and performances. 

“Puwede nating sabihin ito ay pasinaya na rin para sa kabataan, unang okasyon na sila’y namulat sa lakas ng sining. At sana maging pasinaya na rin ito para sa ating lahat na tayo rin ay makilala natin ang puwersa at pag-unawa na handog ng sining (We can say that this is also an introduction for the youth, their first occasion to realize the power of art. And I hope that this will also be an introduction for all of us, that we will also know the power and insights that art offers),” he said.

            This year, the festival featured 316 groups and 6,941 individual performers, perhaps the largest gathering of such kind in the country. 

            The 2025 Pasinaya Festival featured more than 200 performances, as well as workshops, talks, pitching sessions, cultural interactions, a market, tours and other activities that stimulated creativity, categorized into sections or components. A parade was also held to open the second day, participated in by participating artists and performers and partners, and led by a float bearing higantes made in Angono, Rizal.  

In Metro Manila, most of these were held at the CCP venues—the CCP Front Lawn, Tanghalang Bamboo Pavilion at the Liwasang Kalikhasan and Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez—as well as at Circuit Makati, Manila Metropolitan Theater, Intramuros, and Aliw Theater.

            This year’s festival welcomed the addition of new components called Palaro and Paandar, where the makeshift Mess Hall was also an open-mic venue in which anyone can showcase their talents.

            Palaro showcased the works of the grantees of the CCP Game and Comics Development project. Attendees were able to play digital games developed by Filipinos and pariticpate in tournaments. 

The featured games were Sinag by Ranida Games, a mobile 1v1 fighting game that combines Philippine folklore and mythology with engaging gameplay; Pearls of Asia by Synthillate featuring Filipino business figures, and historical and cultural properties; Gala by Kendikorp that enables users to travel around the Philippines; Treasure Seekers, a team-solving game, by Metamedia Information Systems Corp.; and the adventure game Kata by Katakata Creative.

“Whether you're an experienced gamer or a first-timer, CCP Pasinaya’s Palaro delivers a unique fusion of innovative technology and Filipino culture. It’s a chance to experience our rich history and mythology in an entirely new way—through interactive, inspiring gameplay that highlights the creativity of local game developers,” said Marasigan. 

Aside from the games, Palaro also featured the works of Filipino animators and comic artists including Makopaby Friendly Foes; Tungkung Langit at Alunsina by Komiket Inc.; Datu Pat i Mata by Lea Zoraina Sindao Lim; Tulogmatian by Ethel Mae Reyes; Teduray by Julius Sempio; Sinogo by Alfred Ismael Galaroza; and Legend of Sleeping Beauty Mountain by Marco Sumayao.

            The other components were Palihan, Palabas, Paseo Museo, Palitan, Pagtitipon, and Pamilihan.

A popular feature, Palabas showcased different live performances as well as film screenings, mainly at CCP venues and partner venues such as Samsung Performing Arts Theater of Circuit Makati and Aliw Theater. Aside from the CCP resident companies—Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, Bayanihan, the National Dance Company, the Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, Philippine Ballet Theatre, Ballet Philippines, National Music Competition for Young Artists Foundation or NAMCYA, Tanghalang Pilipino, and the Philippine Madrigal Singers—it also featured professional, amateur, school-based and community-based performing groups such as Alice Reyes Dance Philippines, Philippine High School for the Arts’ Sanghiyas Pangkat Mananayaw, Musika Ibarang, Likhang Sining Dance Company, Marikina Dance Guild, Kalilayan Folkloric Group, Adamson Dance Company, Sandiwang Kayumanggi Folk Dance Troupe, and Nueva Ecija’s Bungkos Palay Performing Arts Foundation, University of Santo Tomas Salinggawi Dance Troupe, Indak Kultura Dance Company, Philippine Baranggay Folk Dance Troupe, Barangay Ukulele, Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra, Sing Philippines Youth Choir, Eastern Chamber Singers, Himig Rizalia of Rizal Technological University, Timoteo Paez Elementary School Rondalla, Koro Ilustrado, Kapisanan ng Diwa at Panitik, Makabayang Musikero Laban sa Tiwali or MAMULAT of the Philippine Normal University, Laya Philippines, Kapisanan ng mga Mag-aaral na Manunulat sa Pilipino, Sintalab, Ang Pinoy Storytellers, Lipa Actors Company, and Komedya ng Don Galo.

Selected films from the Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video and Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festiva films were also screened.

Some of the performances were staged at the sites visited by the Paseo Museo, another popular feature. This component was a hop-on-hop-off tour to different museums, galleries, cultural spaces, and heritage sites in Pasay and Manila, where performances were staged and workshops held. 

Twenty sites were included in this year’s Paseo Museo—Bulwagang Roberto Chabet, Liwasang Kalikhasan, Adamson University Gallery, Asian Institute of Maritime Studies’ Museo Maritimo, Bahay Tsinoy, Baluarte de San Diego, Casa Manila, Centro de Turismo, Museo de Intramuros, Fort Santiago, Galleria Duemila, Government Service Insurance System’s Museo ng Sining, Manila Clock Tower Museum, Manila Metropolitan Theater, Museo Pambata, Museum of Contemporary Art and Design of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, National Museum of Anthropology, National Museum of Fine Arts, National Museum of Natural History, and Jose Conrado Benitez Gallery of the Philippine Women’s University’s School of Fine Arts and Design Studio.

Palihan comprised a wide range of different workshops conducted by artists and other experts, while Palitan was a pitching session where concepts and projects were proposed to producers, and CCP Kaisa sa Sining regional network members gathered in Pagtitipon. Pamilihan, located at the parking area of Tanghalang Ignacio Jimenez, was a market selling food, handicrafts, merch and other products. 

“The CCP continuously creates more opportunities for all Filipino artists to showcase their talents to a wider audience. While we pursue our vision of cultivating and enhancing appreciation of Philippine arts, we also give the public free opportunities to experience exceptional artistic performances that can inspire and change their lives,” Marasigan enthused.

A group from Magalang, Pampanga, reenacting the Christmas lubenas tradition (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

A workshop on playing the kulintang (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

Bayanihan, The National Dance Company of the Philippines perorming at the Aliw Theatre (Photo by Kris Angel Ditan)

Dance workshop facilitated by the Bayanihan, The National Dance Company of the Philippines (Photo by Orly Dupaquil)

Palaro, the newest component of the Pasinaya Festival (Photo by Dave Ramirez)

The CCP float bearing Angono higantes at the opening parade of the second day of the festival (Photo by Althea Montes)

The National Museum of Fine Arts was one of the stops of the Paseo Museo tours (Photo by Andre Cristobal)

The performance of Dulambuhay Philippine Playback Theatre at Casa Manila in Intramuros (Photo by Ching Danseco)

The Philippine Madrigal Singers performing during the closing program (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

PHSA Makiling Dance at Aliw Theatre (Photo by Kris Angel Ditan)

The Adamson University Dance Company at the Baluarte de San Diego in Intramuros (Photo by Kane Delgado)

The Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group (Photo by Athena Fontamillas)

The Sining Tanglawan ng San Jose del Monte Performing Group during opening program (Photo by Athena Fontamillasi)

The UP Symphony Orchestra (Photo by Orly Dupaquil)

The UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe at Fort Santiago in Intramuros (Photo by Athena Fontamillas)

Pamilihan (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

Muntinlupa Dance Company at the National Museum of Anthropology (Photo from CCP)

Read article in the Daily Tribune at https://tribune.net.ph/2025/02/16/the-philippines-biggest-arts-fest-welcomes-nearly-60000-attendees

Festivity and Inclusion at the 2025 Bambanti Festival

A decorative arch at the main venue of the festival at the Isabela Capitol Complex in Ilagan City (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

Recognition and inclusion, especially of the long-marginalized LGBTIQ+ community, were emphasized in this year’s celebration of Isabela’s Bambanti Festival, held from January 19 to 25, 2025. 

“The theme of Bambanti Festival 2025, ‘Ang Piyesta ng Bagong Pilipinas,’ will be focusing on inclusivity, solidarity, and equitability of Isabeleños in terms of being able to unite themselves towards a better future path ng Isabela, in terms of agriculture, in terms of culture, in terms of arts, heritage, and tourism,” explained Nilo Agustin, the overall creative director of the festival.

            He also revealed that in several events of the festival, LGBTIQ+ participation and representation were required. This would be the first time that LGBTIQ+ concern was pushed in the local government-organized, touristic and cultural festival of the province in northeastern Luzon.   

            But the festival remains to be a tribute to the farmers of the largely agricultural province. Its name is from the Ilocano word for the “scarecrow,” a common object in fields and farms during harvest season, transformed into an icon of the festival, construed as a symbol of the farmers’ diligence and resilience and as protector and guardian not only of crops but also of the province. The image of scarecrow and its meanings serve as the overall theme and motif of the festival.  

The Bambanti Festival started in 1997 by then governor Benjamin Dy to celebrate the founding anniversary of Isabela. Conceived by his wife, Cecilia La Madrid Dy, it was also intended to promote Isabela as well as its heritage of agriculture and culture.

Initially, the festival was held in May for several years, but it has been postponed a few times because of the elections, which are held in May.  It was not held from 2005 to 2010, when journalist Grace Padaca became governor of Isabela breaking the political dominance of the Dy family. The festival was also not held in 2021 and 2022, because of the coronavirus pandemic and restrictions against big gatherings. 

            In 2011, then governor Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III, brother of Benjamin, revived the festival and moved its celebration to January. In 2019, governor Rodolfo “Rodito” T. Albano III sanctioned the celebration of the Bambanti Festival yearly. 

            Among the festival’s achievements are winning the Best Festival Practices and Performance award at the Aliw Awards in 2015, 2016, and 2017, and achieving the Guinness World Record for the most number of people assembled dressed as scarecrows in 2019.

            Now, the Bambanti Festival continues to be held with Bojie G. Dy III, who is currently the province’s vice governor, serving as its director general. It has grown over the years. Last year, it was able to attract more than 250,000 attendees, according to provincial tourism officer Joanne Dy Maranan. While it is now the biggest festival in the Cagayan Valley Region, Dy and Agustin planned it to be the biggest in the Philippines.

            Like other modern-day festivals in the country, the Bambanti Festival had a full slate of events including a fair, street dancing, sports tournaments, a beauty pageant, shows and different kinds of contests and gatherings, mostly held in the capital city of Ilagan.

 

Ambassadors Attend

            This year’s festival was made special with the attendance of a diplomatic delegation consisting of 38 diplomats, including 21 ambassadors, two chargés d’affaires, and one Deputy Chief of Mission, and their spouses from 24 countries, including Argentina, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Cambodia, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Oman, Poland, Romania, Russia, Singapore, Switzerland, Thailand, Timor Leste and Vietnam. They were welcomed by governor Rodolfo “Rodito” T. Albano and his wife, Mylene Garcia Albano, Philippine ambassador to Japan. 

            Accompanied by Department of Foreign Affairs officials, the diplomats participated in a trade forum; explored tourism, trade and investment possibilities; engaged with the province’s local government and business officials; and joined in the celebration.

            They also embarked on a familiarization tour on January 24 and 25, visiting Isabela’s heritage and tourist sites as well as the Philippine Crocodile Conservation Center in San Mariano, Nagkaisang Magsasaka ng Isabela Agriculture Cooperative rice mill in Cauayan City, Universal Leaf Philippines factory in Reina Mercedes, and Mr. Moo’s Dairy Farm in Ilagan City.

            This is the first time that the province hosted such a sizable diplomatic gathering. 

 

The Bambanti Village

Trade and tourism fairs are regular features of modern-day festivals, comprising booths of different barangays or towns. Over time, these booths become more spectacular and attractions themselves.

During the Bambanti Festival, the Bambanti Village was set up at the Isabela Provincial Capitol Compound for the Agri-Ecotourism and Giant Bambanti Installations Exhibit and Sale, showing the different produce and products of the different towns as well as the creativity of local designers and artisans in the designs of the booths and bambanti installations. At night, the 34 agricultural and tourism booths with giant bambanti installations were lit up, delighting visitors who took endless selfies. For the first time, representation of the LGBTIQ+ community was clearly expressed in a giant bambanti installation, particularly that of Alicia’s. 

            The best booths and giant bambanti installations were recognized on January 24, during the finale of the Bambanti Festival street-dancing competition. (An article, “Colors and creativity at the Bambanti Village,” was previously published on February 4, 2025, and can be read at https://tribune.net.ph/2025/02/03/colors-and-creativity-at-the-bambanti-village).

 

Festival King and Queen Creative Costumes Competition

            In the Bambanti Festival, competitions were created for the festival kings and queens and another for their costumes, the Bambanti Festival King and Queen Costume Competition, which showcased spectacular designs interpreting local cultures, promoting touristic festivals, and making use of local materials.

The Bambanti Festival King and Queen Costume exhibit, together with the Queen Isabela Creative Attire exhibit, was mounted and was on view at the Northstar Mall in Alibagu, Ilagan City, from January 20 to 22. The Bambanti 2025 Festival King and Queen Presentation was held at the Queen Isabela Park on 23 January, featuring pairs of entries from 13 municipalities and cities—Roxas, Jones, Cauayan City, Palanan, Echague, Alicia, Ilagan City, Santo Tomas, San Manuel, Santa Maria, San Pablo, Luna, and San Isidro. (An article, “Creative costumes articulate touristic festivals and local cultures,” was previously published on February 3 and can be read at https://tribune.net.ph/2025/02/02/creative-costumes-articulate-tourist-festivals-and-local-cultures).

            

Queen Isabela Beauty Pageant

            The Philippines is known for its fondness for beauty pageants, which are a staple in many fiestas and now a fixture in modern-day festivals. The Queen Isabela beauty pageant is one of the highlights of the Bambanti Festival. 

            Having secured a franchise of Miss Universe Philippines, Queen Isabela will be sending this year’s winner as the province’s official candidate to the Miss Universe Philippines contest.

            The pageant was held at the newly-opened, 10,000-seat indoor stadium Capital Arena in Ilagan City on January 22. It was notable for featuring the Ilocano handwoven textile or inabel. 

Ilocano textile weaving is practiced in the province, along with other hand-weaving traditions of other ethnic groups such as the Gaddang. According to Isabela officials, Ilocano weaving is confined in only one town, Quezon. 

The cloth was used in making the official gowns of the 33 candidates of the pageant. Prominent designer Albert Andrada was tapped to design the gowns.

            At the end of the pageant, Filipino-Indian student, Jarina Sandhu, from Cauayan City was crown as Queen Isabela and designated as Isabela’s official Miss Universe Philippines candidate. 

            The roster of winners included Queen Isabela Tourism 2025 Mhira Angelene Valenciano from Cordon; Queen Isabela Culture and the Arts 2025 Johnlene E. Ariola from Ilagan City; first runner-up Jhudiel Eunesse Taguinod from Echague City; and second runner-up Criselle Anne Gregorio from Ramon. 

 

Makan ken Mainum ti Isabela Competition

            The Makan ken Mainum Competition is the main culinary event of the Bambanti Festival, where promising young cooks and chefs can showcase their skills in using local ingredients and innovating on traditional dishes.  

            Now on its tenth year, the contest is spearheaded by chef Mary Ann Arcega-Dy, wife of Bojie Dy, and includes two categories, Makan (food) and Mainum (beverage).

“Makan ken Mainum is a very important component activity of the annual Bambanti Festival celebration. It aims to discover signature dishes and beverages of the Isabeleños na puwede nating ipagmalaki sa ating probinsiya (that we can be proud of) not only in Isabela, but in the entire country,” explained Arcega-Dy. “And this year in Makan ken Mainum competition, we shine a spotlight on something that embodies the soul of Isabela. Sa araw na po ito, gagamitin po natin ang kakao or kakao powder sa ating (Today, we will use cacao or cacao powder in our) Mainum category, and the much awaited and exciting part of the competition as we unveil the mystery box in the Makan cooking category.”

“May this competition remind and inspire us all to continue cultivating the values and traditions that make Isabela truly one of a kind,” she enthused. 

            Twenty-two teams from different municipalities and cities competed in this year’s contest, held on January 23 at the Bambanti Village. Aside from incorporating ingredients of the mystery box into their entries, another requirement this year was having at least one LGBTIQ+ member as part of their team.

            The mystery box was revealed to contain the pinilisa variety of rice from Jones and locally grown squash. 

            The team from Tumauini emerged victorious in the Makan category. Other teams placing in the same category were the teams from Cordon (second), San Mateo (third), Santiago City (fourth), and Burgos (fifth).

            In the Mainum category, the team from Luna bagged the first place, followed by the teams from Alicia (second), Tumauini (third), Cauayan City (fourth), and San Isidro (fifth).

 

Street Dancing and Showdown Competition

            The highlight of the Bambanti Festival was the Street Dance and Festival Dance Showdown Competitions at Isabela Sports Complex on 24 January at Isabela Sports Complex.

Thirteen contingents competed with dancers in colorful costumes. This year, the swing jazz style was incorporated in the dance movements which depicted the bambanti, farming life and local lore.

            Two set of winners were declared in the Street Dance portion, Category A (for cities and first-class municipalities) and in Category B (for second- and third-class municipalities). The contingent from Jones took the first place in Category A, followed by the contingents from Ilagan City (second), Echague (third), Alicia (fourth), and Cauayan City (fifth). In Category B, the group from Luna emerged on top, followed by the contingents from Santa Maria (second), Santo Tomas (third), San Manuel (fourth), and San Isidro (fifth).

            In the Festival Dance Showdown portion, the Ilagan City contingent clinched the first place in Category A, while the Luna contingent topped in Category B. The Category A roster of winners included Echague (second), Alicia (third), Cauayan City (fourth), and Roxas (fifth), while Category B included Santa Maria (second), San Isidro (third), San Pablo (fourth), and Santo Tomas (fifth).

            A special award, Foreign Ambassadors’ Choice in Dance Showdown, was given to the Ilagan City contingent, the while the Jones contingent was bestowed the Foreign Ambassadors’ Choice in Street Showdown award.

            The event was graced by Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) president Kaye C. Tinga, CCP Board of Trustees vice chairperson Ma. Carissa Coscolluela, and National Commission for Culture and the Arts chairman Victorino M. Manalo.

            After the street dance and showdown event, winners of the different competitions were revealed in a grand awarding ceremony led by governor Albano and vice governor Dy. Ilagan City was declared the overall winner with their nine wins, bagging P1 million worth of funding for projects. Other winners were Luna (first runner-up), earning project funding of P750,000; Cauayan City (second runner-up), winning project funding worth P500,000; Alicia (third runner-up), receiving project funding valued at P300,000; and Echague (fourth runner-up), awarded with project funding worth P100,000.

 

Musical Events and a Grand Concert

            Every night during the festival, shows were held at the Queen Isabela Park—“Acoustic Night,” featuring Over October, ShortNoticed Unplugged, and DJ Dom; “Rap Night,” featuring Kiddotin, Robledo Timido, Dyco and Halfway Velocity; “Battle of the Bands,” featuring Midnight Cravings, Farah, Rivals of Tomorrow, Bandila, 5id, Myx-Ture, Reverie, Kahidlaw, Maria, and Banyuhay; “Acoustic Night 2,” featuring the MYMP and Marya Klara; “Ginuman Night,” featuring Hale, Shao Lin, Nik Makino, and Cosmic Superstition; and the finale, featuring Maki, Pulse Melody and DJ Mayel.

The Bambanti Musical 2025 was held after street dance and showdown event, featuring Pinopela, Lara Maigue, Gian Magdangal, Alyn Magadia-Dela Cruz, Nonoy Peña, Ralph Angelo Babaran, and the Whiplash Dance Company. 

The following night, the Bambanti Grand Concert capped the festival, showcasing Ely Buendia, Bea Alonzo, Moonstar88, and Regasco Rappers. The event was graced by former senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino. 

 

A Success

            Dy expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed to make the 2025 Bambanti Festival possible and the hosting of diplomats a success during a convocation at the provincial capitol on January 27.

“Ang tagumpay na ito ay hindi lamang tagumpay ng ating lalawigan, kundi tagumpay ng bawat Isabeleño na nagpakita ng talento, sipag, at dedikasyon upang maipamalas ang ganda at yaman ng ating kultura sa harap ng mga dignitaryo (This success is not only the success of the province, but the success of every Isabeleño who gave their talent, diligence and dedication to show the beauty and richness of our culture to the dignitaries),” he said.

The street dancing contingent from Cauayan City (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

The group from Roxas ready for the street dancing competition (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

The rousing perfromance of the San Pablo contingent (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

The dance of the Santo Tomas contingent promoting their Inatata Festival (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

Echague group clinched prizes at the street dancing and showdown competitions (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

The Makan ken Mainum Competion (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

Ely Buendia sang iconic Eraserheads sings during the Bambanti Grand Concert at the Isabela Sports Complex (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

Grand fireworks capped the last two nights of the Bambanti Festival (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

The winners of the the Queen Isabela Pageant 2025 (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)

Isabela provincial tourism officer Joanne Dy Maranan, Isabela vice governor Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III, Bambanti Festival creative director Nilo Agustin and fashion designer Albert Andrada

The Bambanti Village at the Isabela Capitol Complex was a main attraction (Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon)