Beyond the Spectrum: PLM Pride 2026 highlights inclusivity, identity, and advocacy

PLM Pride 2026 brought together students and organizations in a campus-wide celebration marked by vibrant performances, advocacy campaigns, and health initiatives promoting LGBTQIA+ inclusion and visibility, underscoring that Pride is both a celebration and a form of advocacy.

Under the tantalizing summer heat, Haribons still flocked to the university grounds, drawn by the rhythm of music, bursts of color, and the promise of a space where they could fully be themselves. Rainbow flags fluttered above the crowd as cheers echoed across the field, blending with laughter and applause from every corner. Despite the sweltering temperature, the energy remained unshaken. Students danced, chanted, and celebrated, turning the campus into a living, breathing testament to identity, resilience, and pride.

Pageant spotlights voice, identity

The main event, Mx. PLM Intertalak-Chic, introduced a refreshed format featuring the Miss Gay Lotto segment, where candidates showcased their wit, confidence, and stage presence through spontaneous challenges.

Candidates included Jil Torres from the College of Business Administration (CBA), Jobriel Francisco from the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (CTHM), Nicolie Dungca and Benjie Pingol from the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (CHASS), and Elle Agravante from the College of Education (CED).

Jil Torres, a third-year BS Real Estate Management student, was named Mx. Gay Lotto 2026. “Ang Pride is a protest… Hindi lang siya saya-sayahan. Pride is for everyone,” Torres said.

Drag performances by Riley Nicole, alongside Arxenik and Muah Dayaw, further energized the crowd, drawing cheers and applause from the audience.

HIV testing caravan rides toward destigmatization

Prior to the main event, PLM Propaganda (PPG) conducted a three-day free HIV testing caravan from April 22 to 24 at the university field, in partnership with the Manila Social Hygiene Clinic.

The initiative recorded a total of 432 testees, with 16 students enrolled in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), marking a significant step in strengthening preventive healthcare efforts within the campus community. Testing kits were already depleted by 2 p.m. on the second day, reflecting strong student turnout, while limited testing hours on the final day prevented some students from availing of the service.

Beyond the numbers, the turnout signaled a gradual shift in how young Filipinos approach sexual health, one that challenges long-standing stigma and silence surrounding HIV testing in the Philippines. While hesitation among some students persisted, the presence of accessible, confidential, and judgment-free services within the campus created a safe space for awareness and action. It underscored that sexual health remains an essential part of overall healthcare, and that initiatives like these help bridge the gap between fear and informed decision-making.

Facilitators addressed concerns by emphasizing that the testing process is safe, confidential, and minimally invasive, with on-site counselors available to guide participants through each step.

The caravan also featured interactive games and incentives that encouraged student involvement. Participants were prompted to follow sponsor social media pages to receive free contraceptives, giveaways, and raffle entries, making the initiative both informative and engaging.

One of the highlights was the raffle segment, which added excitement and drew more participants. Promotional materials utilized humor and bold messaging to normalize conversations around sexual health, helping reduce stigma and encouraging students to “know their status.”

Campaign calls for recognition

PPG also launched the “Masaya kapag Kinikilala” campaign, advocating for the recognition of LGBTQIA+ students through their lived names, pronouns, and identities, particularly in formal settings such as graduation ceremonies.

PPG Supremo Tristan Ramirez emphasized the importance of self-acceptance. “We don’t owe anyone para mag-out tayo sa kanila… Sa oras na tanggapin natin ‘yung sarili natin, mas makakamtan natin ‘yung kasiyahan,” Ramirez said.

Beyond celebration

More than a festivity, PLM Pride 2026 underscored the continuing need for education, awareness, and inclusivity within the academic community. Through a combination of entertainment and advocacy, the event created a space where students could feel seen, heard, and empowered.

PLM Propaganda reiterated that the annual Pride event serves as a platform not only for celebration, but also for sustained advocacy, education, and the amplification of LGBTQIA+ voices within the university.