Every May 17, people around the world observe IDAHOTB—the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism, and Transphobia. It’s more than just a day of awareness; it’s a call to action. A reminder that while Pride celebrations shine in June, the fight for dignity, equality, and love without fear is year-round.

In the Philippines, where LGBTQIA+ individuals have long been part of our communities, families, and pop culture, there’s still work to be done. From the lack of anti-discrimination laws to everyday microaggressions, support means more than rainbow filters.

Here are five concrete ways you can support LGBTQIA+ rights in the Philippines this IDAHOTB—and beyond:

1. Learn and Unlearn

Real support starts with education. Read about SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression), LGBTQIA+ experiences, and the unique struggles faced by queer Filipinos. Equally important? Unlearning biases you may not even realize you carry.

📚 Where to start:

• Read works by Filipino queer authors like J. Neil Garcia, Sass Rogando Sasot, or Samantha Padilla.

• Follow LGBTQIA+ advocacy pages like Metro Manila Pride, GALANG Philippines, or UP Babaylan.

2. Support LGBTQIA+ Businesses and Creators

Representation matters—and so does economic empowerment. From queer-owned cafés to artists and designers, showing up with your wallet is a strong act of allyship.

🌈 Local faves to check out:

• Butterboy Bakehouse (comfort food delivery with heart)

• Paradeigma (genderless Filipino streetwear)

• @barbierrobarbershop IG for safe-space grooming

3. Speak Up (Even When It’s Uncomfortable)

Homophobic jokes, transphobic comments, or the casual dismissal of someone’s identity? Call it out. You don’t have to start a fight—sometimes, a simple “That’s not okay” can make someone think twice.

🗣️ Be especially mindful in family settings, schools, and workplaces where silence often enables discrimination. Your voice, even in small moments, can make a difference.

4. Push for the SOGIE Equality Bill

Despite growing support, the SOGIE Equality Bill—which seeks to protect Filipinos from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity—has not yet been passed into law.

📝 How you can help:

• Sign petitions and amplify calls to action online

• Email or tag your local representatives to express support

• Join peaceful rallies or online forums led by advocacy groups

5. Celebrate Love Loudly and Authentically

Supporting LGBTQIA+ rights isn’t just about fighting injustice—it’s about making space for joy, freedom, and love to thrive. Whether you’re queer or an ally, show up during Pride Month, share stories of LGBTQIA+ excellence, and celebrate milestones, big and small.

🌟Post about your LGBTQIA+ friends. Attend a Pride event. Wear that rainbow pin. Normalize inclusion in everyday life—not just once a year.

The road to true equality in the Philippines is still long—but every act of kindness, courage, and solidarity counts. This IDAHOTB, let’s commit not just to being “non-discriminatory,” but actively inclusive, informed, and loud about our love for human rights.

Because no one should ever have to live in fear for simply being who they are.

May 17. Mark it. Honor it. Live it.