THE Executive Building of Cagayan de Oro City Hall illuminated in rainbow colors Friday evening, June 27, marking a visible sign of the local government’s support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The lighting ceremony, organized by the City Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System, was held in line with the national observance of Pride Month.
City Hall employees, including known advocates of LGBTQIA+ rights, gathered in front of the Executive Building to witness the event and express support.
Flags representing various LGBTQIA+ identities were also presented on stage as members of the community stood in front of the building, which glowed in symbolic unity.
The event aimed to raise awareness and spark dialogue on issues of gender, rights and inclusion.
Mayor Rolando Uy, through an official statement, affirmed his administration’s continued support for programs and efforts that seek to build equality across sectors.
He recognized the contributions of LGBTQIA+ individuals to the city’s cultural, civic and economic life and emphasized the need to create safe and respectful environments for all.
Vice Mayor Jocelyn Rodriguez also expressed her support through her office, represented at the event by Michael Villamor, supervising head of the Office of the Vice Mayor.
Rodriguez, who has previously backed gender-rights measures in the council, signaled a commitment to legislation that ensures access, fairness and protection for marginalized communities.
“This initiative reflects the city’s effort to recognize everyone, regardless of gender identity or expression,” Villamor said, speaking on behalf of the vice mayor.
This marks the first time City Hall’s Executive Building was lit in the rainbow spectrum for Pride, a move seen by many as a statement of unity from within the government structure itself.
The event capped a series of community-based Pride Month activities supported by public and private partners.
