Talk show host Boy Abunda and comedian and late-night talk show host Boobay are among the first batch of Pride Awardees of the 1st Outstanding LGBTQIA+ of the Philippines.
The Outstanding LGBTQIA+ is a newly launched local recognition during the 7th Outstanding Men and Women of the Philippines that was held in San Juan City on August 25.
Its goal is to recognize the queer community along with the awards given to notable men and women in the country to also acknowledge their presence in society. This is the first time that a local organization has created such an award-giving body for the LGBTQIA+ community.
With this recognition, Boy Abunda expressed his gratitude and appreciation in a local interview. “I am honored with this recognition of being Most Outstanding LGBTQIA+. Maraming salamat kay Richard, maraming salamat sa lahat ng bumubuo ng award-giving body na ito,” he said.
Abunda also added a reminder to continue striving for an inclusive environment for the LGBTQIA+. “Ang aking reaksyon ay pasasalamat, pero gusto ko rin po mag-paalala na, there’s still so much work to do. There’s so much work to do in the context of the LGBT Movement. Kailangan hindi tayo huminto, dahil malayo pa rin ang ating lalakbayin,” he said.
Boy Abunda is currently a judge in GMA’s “Battle of the Judges” while hosting his YouTube channel “The Boy Abunda Talk Channel”.
Boobay attended the Outstanding LGBTQIA+ Awards Night which shows her recovery after undergoing speech therapy due to mild strokes since 2016.
Outstanding Men and Women of the Philippines Founder, Richard Hinola, felt thankful for reaching seven years and shared the purpose of the recognition.
“I am so very happy and glad na nakarating na siya sa ikapitong taon. The main objective of doing this is para talaga makatulong sa kapwa and not for anything else.” Hinola explained.
Precious Paula of Season 1 Drag Race Philippines winner and Ice Seguerra, singer and songwriter were also recognized as Pride Awardees.
Photo Credit:
https://www.instagram.com/boobay7/, https://www.facebook.com/therealboyabunda/
https://www.instagram.com/boobay7/, https://www.facebook.com/therealboyabunda/