MANILA, (PIA) — An official of the Manila Police District (MPD) on Thursday announced that LGBTQ+ individuals are welcome to join military training, marking a significant step towards inclusivity in the nation’s security forces.
Police Colonel Bogard Arao, head of the MPD’s community affairs and development division, made this announcement during the 1st Rainbow Care Caravan in celebration of Pride Month held at the Plaza Moriones in Intramuros, Manila.
“I’m happy to announce that LGBTQ+ individuals are now welcome in military and police services,” Arao said. “If you have family members who identify as such, they can now join military training, provided they meet the requirements.”
The Rainbow Care Caravan, organized by the Philippine Information Agency-National Capital Region (PIA-NCR), aims to bring essential services closer to elderly and marginalized groups, including medical and dental checkups, PhilHealth registration, police clearances, legal counseling, and various informational services.
The event highlights the commitment of both the public and private sectors to fostering an inclusive community.
Col. Arao, who represented the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), emphasized the importance of the event in promoting diversity and unity within the community.
“The Rainbow Care Caravan embodies the spirit of unity, diversity, and inclusion. We are committed to ensuring that every member of our society, regardless of age or gender, receives the essential care and services they deserve,” he said.
The caravan aligns with the broader goals of the Bagong Pilipinas brand of governance of the Marcos administration, which aims to make government services more accessible to the public and to ensure that no one is left behind.
“This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ banner program, which seeks to bring the government to the people and ensure inclusivity,” Arao added.
Participants were treated to goods and services by exhibitors that include the country’s leading on-demand delivery service Lalamove Philippines, the Intramuros Administration, Department of Health’s Metro Manila Center for Health Development, Bureau of Communications Services, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Manila City Government, Ladlad Partylist, National Commission of Senior Citizens, NCRPO, Golden Bekis, Yamang Bukid, Getz Pharma, and Globe Telecom.
The event was attended by several notable figures, including actor and singer-songwriter Ice Seguerra, PIA Deputy Director-Generals Katherine Chloe “Kat” De Castro and Adolfo Ares Gutierrez, Intramuros Administration Administrator Atty. Joan M. Padilla, PhilHealth-NCR Vice President Bernadette C. Lico, Metro Manila Center for Health Development Regional Director Rio L. Magpantay, Regional Director of the Commission on Population Development Jackielyn Robel, Assistant Regional Director of the Department of Tourism-NCR Catherine C. Agustine, and Department of the Interior and Local Government’s City of Manila Director John A. Visca.
Emphasizing the importance of welcoming LGBTQ+ individuals into military and police roles, Arao also highlighted the progress being made towards inclusivity within the security sector.
“Our commitment to inclusivity is reflected in this new policy, which allows LGBTQ+ members to serve in our military and police forces, ensuring that our community is truly diverse and inclusive,” he said.
The Rainbow Care Caravan demonstrates a collective effort to bridge gaps and build a more compassionate community. Arao stressed the importance of such initiatives in fostering a society where everyone feels valued and respected.
“As peacekeepers, we support government initiatives that foster an inclusive society where everyone is valued and respected,” he noted.
The NCRPO’s support for the Rainbow Care Caravan underscores its dedication to promoting peace, equality, and the well-being of all citizens. Arao urged the community to actively participate in and support this initiative, highlighting the impact of collective efforts in building an inclusive society.
For more updates on the Rainbow Care Caravan and other community events, the public is encouraged to follow the PIA-NCR on its respective social media channels. (PIA-NCR)
