The Philippine Financial & Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP) marked a pivotal moment in its journey toward a more inclusive corporate landscape with the launch of its PFIP Business Council.
Held at the Shangri‑La The Fort, Manila, this landmark gathering brought together top business leaders, advocates, and trailblazers across industries, cementing a collective commitment to advancing equity, visibility, and belonging for the Filipino LGBTQ+ community.
PFIP Chairperson Angelo Camaya opened the evening with a powerful call to action, reminding attendees that their presence was more than symbolic.
“Your presence signifies more than support,” he said. “It affirms your commitment to building a workplace and a nation that is safe, inclusive, and empowering for the LGBTQ+ community.”
He also spoke passionately about one of PFIP’s flagship programs, the Bahaghari Awards and Charity Gala, describing it as “more than just moments of recognition or celebration; it is a platform where we honor individuals and organizations driving real change. At the same time we will support the Rainbow Youth Academy we raise vital funds to support PFIP’s grassroots programs and advocacy efforts”.
Weena Ekid, PFIP Board of Trustee and Lead of the Business Council, emphasized the urgency and significance of this initiative.
“Today, we launch the PFIP Business Council – a bold, strategic, and deeply meaningful step forward. This Council brings together senior leaders across sectors, united not just by title, but by a shared purpose: to create workplaces where LGBTQ+ Filipinos are not only included, but truly empowered, respected, and celebrated.”
Ekid framed the Council’s mission as a catalyst for systemic change: “The Pride Business Council is built on a clear mission: to drive transformative change by bringing together decision-makers who are ready to lead—not in name, but in action. From policy advocacy and inclusion programs, to executive education and meaningful partnerships, this Council is more than a forum—it’s a force. A force for equity. A force for visibility. A force for progress”.
The launch was attended by an esteemed roster of corporate leaders and advocates, including:
• Randy Estrellado, COO, Maynilad
• Kim Lokin, CEO, Philippine Pharma Procurement Inc
• Aileen Rodriguez, Chief Customer Growth Officer, Novare
• Raymund Sison, Founder and Creative Chief, Lenon Group
• Philip Cu Unjieng, Columnist, Manila Bulletin
• Nico Bambao, VP for People Experience, Globe Telecom
• Malu Inofre, Founder, ShiftPoint Human Resources and Organizational Development Consultancy
• Manoj Katukulangara, Country Leader, Visa Philippines
• Steven Emerson, President, Amazon Philippines
• Ambe Tierro, Country Managing Director, Accenture Philippines
• Mark Woolfrey, Head of Global Business Services, Manulife
• Coy Macaspac, Country Head, Northern Trust
• Issa Litton, President, Lit1 Corporation
• Bianca Mercado, President, Manila Times
• Myrna Yao, CEO, Richprime Global Inc.
• Angie Flaminiano, President, NutriAsia
• Jor‑el Espina, Atelier Owner and Top Fashion Designer
• Elizabeth Ventura, President, Anchor Land Holdings
• Atty. Virginia Viray, Partner, PSJ Law
• Anna Magkawas, CEO and Founder, Luxe Beauty and Wellness Group
• Nicki Agcaoili, Chief Country Executive, Carelon Global Solutions Philippines
With this launch, PFIP is catalyzing a new era of collaboration between business leaders, advocates, and allies – one that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion as core tenets of corporate culture and national progress.
In his concluding remarks, Camaya expressed heartfelt gratitude to the leaders present and issued a rallying call: “So tonight, we not only thank you—we invite you to keep leading with courage and compassion. Let’s continue building a future where everyone, regardless of SOGIE, can thrive”.
With the PFIP Business Council, the message is clear: In the Philippines, diversity is strength, inclusion is progress, and belonging is a right every person deserves.
