Being your authentic self isn't always easy, especially when you've grown up in a society that expects everyone to fit neatly into a box. For many members of the LGBTQIA+ community, the journey toward self-acceptance has come with struggles, difficult conversations, and moments of doubt.
But while there is still a long way to go, every act of understanding and every story shared is certainly bringing us one step closer to a more inclusive future.
This Pride Month, we're celebrating those stories and the people behind them. On "It's Showtime's" "Laro Laro Pick," several contestants opened up about their experiences that wave the banner of love, courage, and authenticity for the whole LGBTQIA+ community.
We've heard hurtful stereotypes thrown at our LGBTQIA+ friends—that they have little to contribute to their families and society. But, Magda proves otherwise. As the breadwinner, she's actually one of her family's pillars of support. Not only does she provide for her parents, but she also shoulders her nieces and nephews' schooling. For her, these responsibilities are not burdens but acts of love. Through her generosity and dedication to her loved ones, Magda proves that a person's worth is never defined by their gender identity, but by the kindness they choose to share with others.
We also got to meet Jaysan, a school administration officer. Being true to himself never stopped him from excelling at work. He uses his voice and position to be a positive example that professionalism and self-expression can go hand in hand, as he feels fortunate to work in a school environment that's refreshingly progressive. "Nakakapagtrabaho nang naka-ribbon," he joked, talking about the respect he receives in the workplace.
Love wins! If maintaining a relationship is no easy feat, imagine staying strong through three decades together despite the bigger challenges that same-gender couples constantly face. It felt so inspiring to hear the story of Bing and Aida, who have been together for 30 years and are still going strong. According to the couple, the formula is simply being honest with each other and enjoying the journey together.
Behind many LGBTQIA+ individuals who are able to live openly is a support system that helped them get there. And that support should start from home. Nathan experienced that firsthand from her mom, Annsie, her biggest 'ally.' Nanay Annsie shared that three of her children identify as gay, lesbian, and bisexual. While her husband was initially surprised, Annsie stepped in and instilled in him that their kids needed love without conditions.
For sure, a lot of LGBTQIA+ viewers found inspiration in Lars, who took home P350,000 from the game. While pursuing a degree in Office Administration, she also works as a virtual assistant to help pay for her studies and support her family's needs. Like Lars, there are many members of the community who are intelligent, ambitious, and determined to build a better future for themselves. That's why Vice Ganda advised her to take care of her winnings and make sure she finishes school. "Pangarap ko 'yun, na madagdagan pa ang mga kasama namin sa community na nakapagtapos, may diploma at maipagmamalaki ang kanilang educational attainment," said Vice.
The LGBTQIA+ group is made up of people whose lives are filled with the same hopes, dreams, and love that connect us all. Hopefully, these stories from 'Laro Laro Pick' encourage more people to treat one another with understanding, because acceptance has the power to change lives.
Happy Pride Month, our LGBTQIA+ friends!
Catch more inspiring and good vibes-inducing stories on “It’s Showtime,” airing Mondays to Saturdays, 12 NN, on ABS-CBN sa ALLTV2, GMA 7, A2Z, Kapamilya Online Live (KOL) and iWant.
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