May 18, 2012

API Equality-LA Reaches Out to Manny Pacquiao

Los Angeles, CA —Manny Pacquiao is arguably the most famous Filipino person in the world today. API Equality-LA Steering Committee member Noel Alumit said, “Mr. Pacquiao has uplifted the spirit of Filipinos all over the world, including mine. That’s why I was concerned by his comments on gay marriage. Young people look up to him.”

API Equality-LA makes Marriage Equality and the fair treatment of lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders a priority in their advocacy work. The organization which focuses on the Asian and Pacific Islander communities has many Filipino and Filipino Americans among its membership. Leading community organization Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA) is one of API Equality-LA’s supporters.

Ericson Herbas, who works on outreach in the organization, said, “Recent polls show that more and more people are getting used to the idea of gay marriage. And why not? Gay people want to experience the kind of happiness that marriage brings.”

Ezra Evangelista, who works on issues of faith in the organization, said, “It’s important to have positive discussions about LGBT rights in our community. We encourage more discussion and would welcome Manny’s participation.”