CAMP JOHN HAY, Baguio City, Philippines — A vibrant stride toward inclusivity marked a historic moment at Camp John Hay as the Cordillera Pride Community Leaders (CPCL) and the John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) officially launched the Pridestrian: Walk for Inclusivity. Located within the Historical Core, this newly painted rainbow pathway is Baguio’s first Pride-themed pedestrian lane—a living symbol of unity, visibility, and respect for the LGBTQ+ community.

“At JHMC, we believe that public spaces should reflect the values we hold dear: respect, dignity, and belonging,” said JHMC President and CEO Manjit Singh Reandi in his welcome message. “The Pridestrian Walk is not just a path,  it’s a statement.  The rainbow we paint on this road is not just a set of colors,  it is a promise. A promise that our roads, our workplaces, our institutions, and our hearts will always have room for everyone.”

A Coalition of Allies

The ceremonial unveiling brought together a powerful coalition of advocates, government officials, corporate allies, and institutional stakeholders. Among the key figures present were Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong and his wife, Ms. Arlene Magalong; PFIP Board of Trustees Chair Weena Ekid; PFIP Executive Director Michael Santos; representatives from 1LGBT Filipinas; JHMC President and CEO Manjit Singh Reandi; Vice President and COO Jane Theresa Tabalingcos; Baguio City Tourism Supervising Officer Engr. Alec Mapalo; Ms. Barbie Anne Arcache; Founder and Executive Director of CPCL Ms. Van Sanchez; Mr. Ryan Javier; Leaders from the Philippine Financial & Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP); and members of the JHMC staff and stakeholder partners.

Voices of Pride and Purpose

“This was once a dream, now it’s a reality,” shared Van Sanchez, speaking on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community. “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.”

Ms. Barbie Anne Arcache delivered a stirring message on visibility and representation:

“I stand here not with a title, but with a belief, that every one of us holds the power and responsibility to build a more inclusive world. Today, we celebrate visibility, belonging, and the profound action that respect demands.”

Representing the Office of the Baguio City Congressman, Ryan Javier emphasized the deeper meaning behind the initiative:

“This isn’t just about pink tourism, it’s about humanitarian understanding. Today, we walk together on a path painted with pride, compassion, and unity. These colors aren’t just hues, they’re steps toward a future where everyone walks free and proud of who they are.”

Institutional Commitment to Inclusion

The Pridestrian Walk reflects JHMC’s commitment to diversity and inclusive design. Strategically placed in a high-foot-traffic area within Camp John Hay’s Historical Core, it reinforces the corporation’s role in fostering social cohesion while honoring Baguio’s rich cultural heritage.

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

A Path Forward

As participants walked the rainbow path, their steps wove a vibrant trail of solidarity, echoing the values of equality and compassion across all walks of life. The Pridestrian Walk now stands not only as a physical landmark, but as a call to action: to celebrate diversity, protect dignity, and champion inclusivity—one stride at a time.