Quezon City affirms its designation as a safe space at QC Pride March 2017

A handful of motorists blared their horns in annoyance as a parade of people celebrated being out and proud at the QC Pride March 2017. The irritation was not based on ideology, rather just the traffic that the event was causing.

Ambet, a business owner along Timog, told GMA News Online that he stepped out of his shop to check what the fuss was about. Asked about his initial reaction, he said with a laugh: "Ayan, nagka-traffic dahil sa kanila."

He supports what they're doing, he clarified, and would have joined the march had he been informed and if he didn't have a shop to mind.

Nikka, an onlooker from the sidewalk, told GMA News Online that it's good to have activities like this. "Magandang naipaglalaban nila 'yong gusto nila."

Another person who stepped out of a shop to look, Kathy, shared that this is her first time seeing something like this and found it fun. "Masaya! Okay din 'yan, kasi may mga kaibigan din naman tayong [LGBTQ+] 'di ba."

The parade followed a short route that began in Tomas Morato and followed the triangle made by Timog Avenue, Sgt. Esguerra, and Mother Ignacia. There were group cheers along the way and people were visibly happy to see Catwalk King Sinon Loresca as he waved and struck poses from the Eat! Bulaga Super Sireyna float.

Even with the SOGIE Bill getting approved on the third and final reading, the community continues to march against existing oppressive mechanisms. Armed with glitter, rainbows, and a whole lot of love , the march made it clear that the intention is to achieve real equality.

Quezon City remains the only city with a dedicated Pride Council, but it is not the only city where discrimination against members of the LGBTQ+ community exists.

Perhaps it was an inconvenience to some, but the parade was a strong message from the local government: We will find a way for you. We will stop and listen to you.  — LA, GMA News