The Philippine Financial & Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP) proudly joined the launch of Pridestrian: Walk for Inclusivity, a project of the Cordillera Pride Community Leaders (CPCL) and the John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC).
This initiative, Baguio City’s first Pride-themed pedestrian lane at Camp John Hay, is a vibrant rainbow pathway located within the Historical Core and serves as a powerful symbol of LGBTQ+ visibility, community empowerment, and public inclusivity.
PFIP, represented by Board Trustee Weena Ekid and Executive Director Michael Santos, underscored the significance of such initiatives in promoting acceptance and awareness for LGBTQ+ individuals in public spaces. The organization highlighted how projects like the Pridestrian are more than aesthetic – they are tools to foster social cohesion, representation, and empowerment across communities.
“I’m thankful for initiatives like the Pridestrian that send a clear message: LGBTQ+ individuals belong everywhere – on our streets, in our workplaces, and within our institutions,” said Ekid. “This is not just about painting a walkway; it’s about creating safe, visible, and welcoming spaces where people of all genders and orientations can feel proud and empowered.”
“The Pridestrian Walk is an inspiring example of how public spaces can reflect inclusion and respect for all,” said Santos. “Visibility matters. When our communities see themselves represented, it validates their identity, strengthens their sense of belonging, and encourages conversations about equality. PFIP is proud to support initiatives that make every Filipino feel seen and valued.”
The launch brought together local government officials, corporate allies, community leaders, and advocacy organizations. For PFIP, the event was an opportunity to demonstrate the importance of institutional support for LGBTQ+ initiatives and the role of public spaces in driving awareness.
The Pridestrian Walk now stands as both a physical and symbolic landmark, reinforcing PFIP’s advocacy for visibility, community engagement, and inclusive design. By participating in the launch, PFIP reaffirmed its commitment to advancing programs and initiatives that foster acceptance, education, and empowerment for LGBTQ+ communities across the Philippines.
“Every rainbow painted in our cities is a step toward a future where everyone can walk freely and proudly,” Santos added. “Initiatives like this remind us that inclusion is not optional—it’s a responsibility, and it’s something we can celebrate together.”
“This pedestrian lane is more than color on concrete, it’s a promise,” said Jane Theresa Tabalingcos, Vice President and COO of JHMC. “A promise to listen, to speak with kindness, and to make space for everyone. Inclusion isn’t a one-day event, it’s how we live, every day.”
“At JHMC, we believe that public spaces should reflect the values we hold dear: respect, dignity, and belonging,” said JHMC President and CEO Manjit Singh Reandi. “The Pridestrian Walk is not just a path, it’s a statement. The rainbow we paint on this road is not just a set of colors, it is a promise. A promise that our roads, our workplaces, our institutions, and our hearts will always have room for everyone.”
Through this collaboration, PFIP continues to champion inclusive spaces, amplify LGBTQ+ voices, and strengthen visibility, creating meaningful impact that resonates far beyond a single walkway. The Pridestrian is now a lasting reminder of what communities can achieve when unity, representation, and pride lead the way.
* Photos courtesy of John Hay Management Corporation
