At this year’s Bahaghari Awards, the Philippine Financial & Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP) placed a powerful spotlight on individuals whose influence extends beyond the walls of any organization – leaders and allies whose voices, platforms, and personal commitments have created ripples of positive change for the LGBTQ+ community nationwide.
These special awards honor Filipinos whose impact is felt not only in workplaces and advocacy spaces, but also in wider public arenas where representation, visibility, and empowerment enrich the everyday lives of countless people. By recognizing champions outside of PFIP, the awards celebrate a beautiful truth: inclusion thrives when the broader community comes together to uplift, support, and celebrate LGBTQ+ Filipinos.
In an era where conversations on diversity and inclusion are flourishing, celebrating these individuals becomes a joyful affirmation of how far the movement has come – and how many inspiring leaders continue to help it grow. Their example highlights the best of what inclusive leadership can be: uplifting others, opening doors, and using their platforms to champion authenticity, pride, and belonging.
Their leadership reflects the vibrant spirit of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies – showing the country that when influential figures choose to stand for inclusion, they spark inspiration, strengthen communities, and help create spaces where everyone can thrive. These honorees embody the energy, optimism, and partnership that make the Bahaghari Awards a true celebration of people who move equality forward in meaningful, visible, and joyful ways.
This year, PFIP proudly honored three extraordinary recipients whose dedication to inclusion reflects this vision:
PFIP’s Choice for Ally of the Year: Karen Davila
Esteemed broadcast journalist Karen Davila was named PFIP’s Choice for Ally of the Year, recognizing her strong and sustained advocacy for equal rights, representation, and dignity for LGBTQ+ Filipinos. Through her reporting, interviews, and social influence, Davila has amplified LGBTQ+ stories in ways that resonate nationwide – bringing pride, understanding, and visibility to the community.
“True allyship requires courage, consistency, and compassion – and Karen has shown all three throughout the years,” said PFIP Chair Angelo Camaya. “Her voice has helped bring LGBTQ+ issues to the mainstream, sparking conversations and inspiring others to stand with our community.”
PFIP’s Choice for LGBTQ+ Leader of the Year: Randy Estrellado
The PFIP’s Choice for LGBTQ+ Leader of the Year was awarded to Randy Estrellado, a distinguished leader in the finance sector and a long-time champion of workplace inclusion. Estrellado’s leadership demonstrates the transformative power of visibility – proving that when LGBTQ+ leaders are empowered to lead authentically, they become catalysts for progress within and beyond their organizations.
“Randy’s leadership shows the power of visibility,” said PFIP Executive Director Michael Santos. “His work proves that when LGBTQ+ professionals are empowered to lead authentically, they uplift not just their teams but entire communities.”
Bahaghari Champion Award: Secretary Christina Frasco & Congressman Duke Frasco
The prestigious Bahaghari Champion Award was presented to Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Cebu 5th District Representative Duke Frasco for their strong commitment to initiatives that uplift LGBTQ+ college students. Through opportunities, resources, and direct assistance such as scholarship support, they have helped young LGBTQ+ Filipinos pursue their education, dream boldly, and thrive with confidence.
“Secretary Frasco and Congressman Frasco have shown remarkable dedication to creating pathways for our LGBTQ+ college students,” said Camaya. “Their support fuels the confidence of young people who dream of a more equal Philippines.”
Why These Awards Matter to the LGBTQ+ Community
Beyond recognition, the Bahaghari Awards’ special categories serve as celebrations of hope, representation, and unity for the LGBTQ+ community. These awards:
1. Celebrate shared responsibility
They highlight that the journey toward equality is powered not only by LGBTQ+ individuals but also by allies who choose to stand with the community wholeheartedly.
2. Inspire others to lead with inclusion
Recognizing public figures encourages more leaders to embrace advocacy, recognizing that inclusion strengthens industries, institutions, and communities.
3. Provide visible role models for LGBTQ+ youth
Young LGBTQ+ Filipinos draw courage from seeing respected figures uplift their stories, their dreams, and their place in society.
4. Elevate LGBTQ+ narratives in mainstream spaces
By honoring these champions, PFIP ensures that LGBTQ+ representation continues to flourish across media, government, and public service.
5. Affirm joy, pride, and collective progress
These awards celebrate the people who help make the Philippines a more vibrant, welcoming, and empowering home for LGBTQ+ Filipinos.
As Santos emphasized, “We honor these individuals not just for what they have done, but for what their influence continues to inspire. Every champion we recognize becomes a catalyst for broader, deeper, and more sustainable change.”
The Bahaghari Awards 2025 celebrates these remarkable champions whose voices and actions extend beyond any single institution. Their commitment strengthens the movement for equality – and lights the path toward a future where every LGBTQ+ Filipino can live with pride, dignity, and possibility.
