Baguio unveils first Pride-themed ‘Pridestrian’ lane

BAGUIO CITY — The John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) and Cordillera Pride Community Leaders (CPCL) on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 have unveiled Baguio City’s first Pride-themed pedestrian lane, the Pridestrian: Walk for Inclusivity, located within the Historical Core of Camp John Hay.

The rainbow-painted walkway serves as a landmark symbolizing unity, respect, and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community, reinforcing Baguio’s growing commitment to inclusion in public spaces.

“At JHMC, we believe that public spaces should reflect the values we hold dear: respect, dignity, and belonging,” JHMC President and CEO Manjit Singh Reandi said during the launch ceremony.

“The rainbow we paint on this road is a promise that our roads, our workplaces, our institutions, and our hearts will always have room for everyone.”

The event gathered a diverse coalition of allies, including Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong and his wife Arlene Magalong; PFIP Chair Weena Ekid and Executive Director Michael Santos; CPCL Founder Van Sanchez; representatives from 1LGBT Filipinas; JHMC Vice President and COO Jane Theresa Tabalingcos; Baguio City Tourism Supervising Officer Alec Mapalo; and other institutional partners.

“This was once a dream, now it’s a reality. The Pride pedestrian lane is more than paint on pavement—it’s a symbol of love, unity, and respect. May every step across it remind us that love knows no boundaries and that Baguio is a home for all,” Sanchez said.

Representing the Office of the Baguio City Congressman, Ryan Javier underscored the project’s deeper intent.

“This isn’t just about pink tourism—it’s about humanitarian understanding. These colors represent compassion, pride, and equality,” Javier said.

JHMC officials emphasized that the Pridestrian Walk reflects the corporation’s continuing advocacy for diversity and inclusive design.

Positioned in a high-foot-traffic zone within Camp John Hay, it also honors the area’s historical and cultural significance.

“This pedestrian lane is more than color on concrete—it’s a promise to listen, speak with kindness, and make space for everyone. Inclusion isn’t a one-day event; it’s how we live every day,” Tabalingcos said.

The Pridestrian Walk now stands as a permanent marker of solidarity in Baguio City—a reminder to celebrate diversity, protect dignity, and champion inclusivity one stride at a time.