In celebration of Pride Month, the Villar Foundation honored six exceptional LGBTQIA+ individuals from Las Piñas who have excelled in their respective fields and made a lasting impact on the broader community.
The awarding ceremony took place during the Pride celebration at The Tent, drawing community leaders, advocates, and residents in a show of solidarity and support for LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility.
This initiative by the Villar Foundation aims to celebrate diversity, recognize talent, and amplify the voices of LGBTQIA+ leaders, whose work promotes acceptance, empowerment, and inclusion across various sectors.
“These individuals exemplify courage, excellence, and the power of representation chosen because of their significant contributions in their field and the community.”
“These individuals exemplify courage, excellence, and the power of representation chosen because of their significant contributions in their field and the community,” said Senator Cynthia Villar, who led the awarding alongside Senator Mark Villar and Senator-elect Camille Villar.
Awardees recognized for outstanding contributions were:
1. Danika A. Damo – Beauty and Fashion, Culture and the Arts
2. Alfonso Tibus – Education and Academe
3. Josel B. Duco – Livelihood and Entrepreneurship
4. Ariel Claveria – Youth Leadership
5. Mark Vincent Arcilla – Youth Leadership
6. Venice Rose Quinte – Sports
Each honoree received a Villar Foundation PRIDE Trophy and a P20,000 cash incentive, acknowledging both their personal achievements and their role in driving community progress.
“They demonstrate a high degree of credibility, integrity and excellence in their field.”
“They demonstrate a high degree of credibility, integrity and excellence in their field,” the veteran legislator noted.
The Pride Month celebration in Las Piñas, which also featured a colorful parade and the Binibining Bahaghari Pageant, marked the Villars’ growing commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusion and advocacy.
“Their stories inspire us to continue the fight for justice and equal rights,” the lady senator added, emphasizing the Foundation’s ongoing mission to support marginalized communities.
The Villar Foundation’s efforts reflect a broader movement within the city to ensure respect, dignity, and equal opportunities for all, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.
