The Quezon City government conducted its third 'rainbow' graduation ceremony on June 11, 2026 as part of its efforts to promote inclusivity and gender-affirming support for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Around 220 participants joined the symbolic event, which aimed to provide a meaningful graduation experience for individuals who may have been unable to openly express their gender identity or sexual orientation during their actual school graduations.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte said the ceremony serves as a message of acceptance, encouraging LGBTQIA+ individuals to participate as their authentic selves and reminding them that they are valued, respected, and embraced by the community.She emphasized that the event is not an official academic graduation but a symbolic recognition of personal identity and belonging.During the same occasion, the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) discussed adoption opportunities available to LGBTQIA+ individuals.NACC Executive Director Ma.

Gabriela Concepcion explained that under the Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act, people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender are not barred from adopting children.

However, because same-sex marriage and unions are not legally recognized in the Philippines, couples in same-sex relationships may only apply through the solo parent adoption program.Concepcion stressed that sexual orientation and gender identity are not factors that disqualify a person from becoming an adoptive parent.Instead, authorities focus on evaluating an applicant's ability to provide proper care and parenting.According to NACC data, 19 of the country's 326 registered adopters belong to the LGBTQIA+ community.Officials reiterated their commitment to ensuring a fair and non-discriminatory adoption process for all qualified applicants.