Cebu’s Pride Month celebration is set to become more extensive this year as organizers roll out a province-wide lineup of activities across multiple local government units throughout June.
Backed by the Cebu Provincial Government, the “Cebu Grand Pride Parade” will anchor a month-long series of advocacy events, community gatherings, entertainment programs, and awareness campaigns expected to draw thousands of participants.
The partnership between the province and the Cebu Pride Movement was formalized during a press conference at the Cebu Provincial Capitol on Wednesday, May 27, where organizers presented activities focused on diversity, equality, health awareness, and inclusion.
Organizers said the 2026 edition expands beyond Cebu City, aiming to involve more communities across the province.
“It’s now called Cebu Grand Pride Parade because we want to invite everyone from different sectors and showcase that Cebu is inclusive,” said Provincial Youth Development Office focal person Mikee Empaces.
The main event is scheduled on June 27, with participants gathering at the Capitol before marching through Osmeña Boulevard, Jones Avenue, and Colon Street, ending at Plaza Independencia.
Organizers expect around 15,000 to 20,000 participants, making it one of the largest Pride-related events in Cebu.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro and Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival are expected to join the march, described by organizers as a symbol of “a united Cebu under one rainbow flag.”
The month-long celebration opens on June 1 with the Pride Month Opening Salvo and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Summit 2026 at the Cebu Provincial Capitol Social Hall.
Empaces said the Capitol venue was offered to accommodate a larger number of participants after previous events faced space constraints.
Cebu Pride Movement co-founder Ramon Matthew Basabe said the larger venue also removes participation barriers linked to limited capacity and registration costs.
Other scheduled activities include the “Gugmahan” community gathering on June 6, “Run With Pride” on June 7 at Cebu IT Park, The Big Pride Picnic on June 14, the screening of “A Quiet Bloom” on June 21, “Hook-Up” on June 13, and the Pasalamat and Prism Awards on June 30.
The Mandaue City Pride March is set for June 28, while the Queen of Cebu City pageant will take place on June 27.
Advocacy efforts will also highlight HIV awareness, including through the musical “Hook-Up” and platforms such as Mr. Gay Sugbo.
Organizers said this year’s theme emphasizes inclusion, representation, and community participation across Cebu.
“Regardless of what color you are in the rainbow, you are part of it,” said Dr. Christian Emmanuel Enrique, president of Mr. Gay Sugbo.
Photo by Kaiser Jan Fuentes
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