Bacolor’s LGBTQ+ Group lends hand amidst Pandemic, Flooding

BACOLOR, PAMPANGA – Rosas Villa de Bacolor has been ramming waist-high floodwaters and going door-to-door to deliver relief goods and aid for affected families of flooding brought about by the relentless rainfall the past weeks. 

Recipients include 750 families in Brgy. Tinajero and Brgy. Cabetican, as well as neighboring barrios and sitios. 

The LGBTQ+ group, with over 140 members, has been known to organize social service works such as community pantries, feeding programs, livelihood and development seminars, and donation drives for other social groups and marginalized communities. 

Photo courtesy of Rosas Villa de Bacolor

“Anggang okarin man kakatas ing albug kung bisa kang sumaup makasaup ka!” (Whatever height the flood level rises to, if you’re willing to help, you can help!) shared Joms Lee, member and organizer, in a Facebook post.

Moreover, the group initiated vaccinations for its members to provide additional protection in the growing challenges of the pandemic, and as preparation for more community services. This prioritization for health is shared with their advocacy for HIV testing and HIV awareness for both LGBTQ+ and non-LGBTQ+ individuals. 

Photo courtesy of Rosas Villa de Bacolor

The group’s initiatives are made to fruition through the help of the local government, non-government organizations and private individuals who provided sponsorship and logistical support. 

Rosas Villa de Bacolor encapsulates the value of “bayanihan” despite the challenge of queer stereotyping. Their works prove that the spirit of pride month goes beyond the month and is alive every day, and most significantly, in every crisis.