Officials and guests at the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the newly painted rainbow crosswalk and footbridge in Ugong, Pasig City, in front of Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) office, happily walk around the infrastructures while they join the celebration of Pride Month this June. MMDA acting Chairperson, Atty. Don Artes emphasizes that in his administration, there’s no discrimination and all are welcome and given equal opportunities. (Photo: MMDA)
In alliance with the LGBTQIA+ community, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has transformed a pedestrian lane and a footbridge into a vibrant rainbow crosswalk and overpass in front of its head office in Barangay Ugong, Pasig City.
This colorful transformation is more than a mere aesthetic enhancement; it stands as a potent symbol of support and allyship, touching deeply with the values of inclusivity and acceptance that Pride Month champions.
MMDA Acting Chairperson Atty. Don Artes explains that these rainbow-painted structures are a visible commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and safety for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
By integrating these vibrant symbols into everyday urban infrastructure, the MMDA encourages members of the community to participate fully and openly in public life. This initiative underscores a fundamental message: in MMDA, there is no room for discrimination.
“In MMDA, there is no discrimination. All are welcome and given equal employment opportunities regardless of sexual preference,” Artes emphasizes. This statement reflects a broader vision of an inclusive society where diversity is not merely tolerated but celebrated.
While the rainbow crosswalk and footbridge serve as powerful symbols, Atty. Artes highlights that this is just the beginning. “The adoption of rainbow crosswalk and footbridge is just a symbolic start towards more concrete plans and projects for gender inclusivity,” he said. The MMDA’s actions signal a commitment to eradicating stigma and fighting discrimination, setting the stage for more comprehensive measures to ensure equality for all.
The initiative is also a call to action for other government agencies, local government units, and private organizations. By leading through example, the MMDA hopes to inspire others to take a stand and become more socially aware. Pasig City Representative Roman Romulo, who attended the ceremonial ribbon cutting, praised the initiative as a proof to the city’s commitment to inclusivity.
“The unveiling of a rainbow pedestrian crossing and footbridge near the MMDA office shows that the city is for inclusivity,” Romulo remarked. This sentiment was echoed by other officials and community leaders present at the event, including Barangay Ugong captain Gloria P. Cruz and Valle Verde 3 Homeowners Association President Alma Horn.
The rainbow crosswalk and footbridge are not just symbols for the LGBTQIA+ community; they represent hope and progress for society as a whole. They challenge us to confront our biases and embrace a more inclusive and accepting world. These symbols remind us that every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, deserves to feel safe, valued, and included.
As the MMDA continues to champion inclusivity through both symbolic gestures and concrete actions, the hope is that this initiative will spark a broader movement towards acceptance and equality. The rainbow crosswalk and footbridge in Pasig City are a demonstration of what can be achieved when we commit to standing together against discrimination and for the rights of all individuals.
“The government’s support for the LGBTs is an expression that there’s nothing wrong with being a member of the community,” Artes said.
This powerful message, now painted across the pathways of Pasig City, serves as a sign of pride and progress for the entire nation. (AVS/PIA-NCR)
