Verde Creatives Unveils EQUALITY CHAMPIONS: Magandang Laban Photo Campaign in support for SOGIESC Bill
Wednesday, June 18, 2025
As Pride Month 2025 concludes, the call for the passage of the SOGIE Equality Bill remains strong. Advocates continue to urge lawmakers to prioritize the bill to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals in the Philippines are protected from discrimination and violence. The ongoing discussions and advocacy efforts reflect a collective commitment to achieving equality and justice for all, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.
As of June 2025, the SOGIE Equality Bill remains unpassed in the Philippines, despite over two decades of advocacy and mounting public support. The bill seeks to prohibit discrimination based on Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC) in areas such as employment, education, healthcare, and public services. It also proposes the establishment of a National Council for SOGIE Equality to monitor compliance and address complaints.
Because of this pressing matter, Verde Creatives Incorporated, leading public relations, talent management, and events production announced the public unveiling of its landmark Pride Month Photo Campaign, "EQUALITY CHAMPIONS: Magandang Laban." This powerful visual tributePut:tichere gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) community serves as a fervent call for the passage of the SOGIESC Bill.
Watch the opening remarks of Ms. Bemz Benedito together with Dexter Macaldo, Ms. Barbie Anne Arcache and Ms. Vashti Ortego.
Launched in celebration of Verde Creatives' eighth (8th) year anniversary this year, it is also their way to express solidarity to the rainbow community in their epic, decades-long struggle for the passage of the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC) Bill, which continues to languish in the Philippines Congress.
The unveiling of the Rainbow Photoshoot
The strategic timing of this unveiling during the Pride Month maximizes visibility and aligns with the heightened public discourse surrounding LGBTQIA+ rights, transforming the campaign into a critical, timely intervention for legislative action.
The "EQUALITY CHAMPIONS" campaign is spearheaded by Ms. Bemz Benedito, a trailblazing transgender woman who founded Verde Creatives and remains a steadfast figure in the LGBTQIA+ rights movement.
Ms. Benedito holds the distinction of being the first transgender woman to be cl congressional nominee and the first transwoman elected chairperson of Ladlad Partylist, the pioneer political party for LGBTQIA+ Filipinos. Her leadership imbues the campaign with authentic passion and deep understanding of the community's fight, lending undeniable credibility and genuine commitment to the cause.
"The unveiling of 'Equality Champions: Magandang Laban' is more than just an exhibition; it is a powerful declaration of our collective resolve," states Ms. Bemz Benedito. "Each photograph tells a story of courage, resilience, and the unwavering demand for dignity. We believe that by making our lives visible, we can dismantle prejudice and finally galvanize the support needed to pass the SOGIESC Bill, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind due to their sexual orientation or gender identity."
Building on its successful "Queen of Baguio" campaign in 2024, which highlighted the rights and visibility of transgender Filipinas, Verde Creatives continues its unwavering support for Pride Month.
This year, the campaign is bolstered by strategic partnerships with Ladlad Partylist and the Society of Transsexual Women of the Philippines (STRAP): a transsexual women support group. The "Equality Champions" collection pioneering tran features compelling images from Verde Creatives, Ladlad, STRAP, and crucially, their cisgender supporters and allies, underscoring the broad coalition advocating for change.
The campaign's powerful narrative is further amplified by the active involvement of esteemed community leaders, including Mr. Dexter Macaldo (Chairperson of Ladlad Partylist), Ms. Santy Layno (STRAP) and Ms. Maria Barbie Anne Arcache (National Leader of 1 LGBT Filipinas Inc. and Adviser to the Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride Council).
It becomes more meaningful with the presence of Antipolo Organization or TAO and the LGBTQIA+ Association of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board or LTFRB under the Department of Transportation.
Through these collective voices and images, "Equality Champions: Magandang Laban" aims to galvanize wider and stronger support for the LGBTQIA+ community's vital cause. The campaign vividly portrays Filipinos from various sexual orientations and gender identities, alongside their dedicated supporters and allies, making a compelling visual argument for human rights and dignity.
The title, "Magandang Laban" (Good Fight), resonates deeply within the Philippine context, framing the campaign as a righteous and enduring struggle for justice that demands perseverance and collective action. The impactful campaign has garnered significant cross-sectoral support from influential figures and organizations, demonstrating a growing mainstream acceptance and Political will for LGBTQIA+ rights. This diverse backing signals that the cause is gaining substantial momentum across various pillars of society.
June is Pride Month but why not make it 365 days—a time to honor the history, struggles, and triumphs of the LGBTQIA+ community. It is not only a celebration of love and identity but also a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality, dignity, and inclusion.
Equality is not a destination but a shared journey. This Pride Month, let’s honor the courage of those who came before us and stand united in building a future where everyone—no matter who they are or who they love—can live openly and safely with pride.
Verde Creatives is supported in this campaign by Senator Loren Legarda, PGeneral Rommel Francisco Marbil and Mrs. Mary Rose Marbil, Representative Geraldine Roman, Representative Marlyn “Len” Alonte, Quezon City Councilor and Kababaihan Partylist Kate Galang-Coseteng, Atty. Robert D. Peig, CESO V, Dark Roast Coffeehouse, P-iKan and Organic Nature.
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