Reigning Miss Universe Philippines Chelsea Manalo (left) and 2015 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach/CHELSEA MANALO FACEBOOK PHOTO The throngs of gay men who trooped to Pride Night 2024 were treated to a parade of their “idols” when reigning Miss Universe Philippines Chelsea Manalo and 2015 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach graced the annual celebration of the LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and others) community. The merrymaking happened at the Bridgetowne Open Grounds in Pasig City on June 1, the first day of LGBTQIA+ Pride Month, and saw thousands of people in the community and their allies engaged in activities and enjoying the program. The event was mounted by the LoveYourself Philippines, a nonprofit organization that seeks to empower individuals through self-affirmation, and programs that address pressing issues that the community faces.
Wurtzbach has been one of its ambassadors who has stayed on for many years and continues to lend her fame for its projects. Garbed in a chartreuse ensemble with long fringes attached to an asymmetrical neckline, Wurtzbach took the stage carrying the LGBTQIA+ rainbow flag, which she waved so valiantly before the audience. “Happy Pride! Maraming maraming salamat sa pagpunta n’yo dito.
Ansayang tignan na nagsasama-sama tayo (Thank you very much for coming here. It’s so happy to see us all together) for this, June 1, kickoff ng (of) Pride Month. I’m so proud to be an ally, and I’m so proud to be he.