FIRST Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez are spreading the love this month of June, leading the distribution of financial assistance to qualified members of the LGBTQIA+ in Mandaluyong City Monday in celebration of Pride Month.
Romualdez, the leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives, joined the First Lady in granting P5,000 each to 5,000 members of the pride community under the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) led by Secretary Rex Gatchalian.
“The LGBTQIA+ community has long been a solid and vibrant partner in our nation’s journey toward progress and development. Today, we recognize and celebrate your vital role in nation-building,” Romualdez said.
The Speaker said the AKAP program is proof of the government’s commitment to uplift the lives of all Filipinos, including the poor and the near-poor, ensuring that no one is left behind.
“Para ito sa mga kababayan natin na nahihirapan sa hamon ng araw-araw na pamumuhay. Alam nating hindi permanente ang ating paghihirap, at darating ang panahon na makaluluwag tayo at aahon. Nawa ay makatulong ang AKAP sa inyo ngayon,” he said.
According to House Deputy Secretary General Sofonias “Ponyong” P. Gabonada Jr., the AKAP beneficiaries came from the City of Mandaluyong and from members of the group LGBT Pilipinas in Metro Manila.
Gabonada said each of the recipients received P5,000 and food packs from DSWD in a simple ceremony held at the Mandaluyong College of Science and Technology in Barangay Addition Hills.
He added that it is a joint initiative of the First Lady and the Speaker that coincides with the implementation of the LAB4ALL program in Mandaluyong City.
Romualdez said the AKAP aid for members of the LGBTQIA+ community is not just a mere financial assistance, but also an acknowledgment of their hard work.
“As we celebrate Pride Month, it is important to reflect on the values of acceptance, equality and love that bind us together. This is a symbolic gesture of our solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community, reinforcing our resolve to create a society where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can thrive and prosper,” the lawmaker from Leyte said.
“You have been at the forefront of advocating for equal rights, and your efforts have significantly shaped a more inclusive Philippines. Today, we honor your contributions and pledge our continued support for your endeavors,” he added.
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