Vice Ganda on her Cancelled Pride PH Performance, her Amsterdam Dress, and her Tribute to Ion.
MANILA — “Natulala ako!” This was Vice Ganda's reaction upon learning that the much-anticipated Pride PH event at Quezon City Memorial Circle was canceled due to heavy rain. The unexpected downpour compromised the audio and lighting equipment, flooded the stage, and damaged the backstage dressing rooms. Traffic along Quezon Avenue further hindered performers from reaching the venue.
Despite the abrupt end to the Pride March 2024 in Quezon City, Vice Ganda’s excitement and commitment to the event were palpable. "Ang taas ng excitement eh. Ako mismo personal sobrang sobrang excited. Para siyang premiere night ng pelikula," she shared. "Iba 'yung gusto kong makapagsalita, makapag-perform nung gabi na yun."
Vice Ganda had prepared extensively for a concert-like performance, highlighting her dedication to the Pride event. "Pinaghandaan ko talaga siya. Ginastusan ko siya. Malala. Parang concert 'yung ima-mount ko. It’s a protest in the form of a concert," she said. The performance was set to include 50 dancers, a 30-member dancing choir, a full band setup, five costume changes, and special effects involving fire and hydraulics.
Vice Ganda also revealed that a special guest, a prominent LGBT icon, was scheduled to join her for a 16-minute performance. The cancellation came as a significant disappointment. "Malaki siyang project for me, tapos sinabi nang hindi na tuloy, natulala ako," she recounted.
Understanding the importance of safety, Vice Ganda acknowledged the organizers' decision. "At the end of the day, life is the most valuable (thing). Paano kung may mapahamak, kahit isa lang. May masaktan, magkagulo."
Despite the cancellation, Vice Ganda found a silver lining by engaging with the Pride march earlier in the day. She surprised marchers by climbing the ABS-CBN fence to catch a glimpse of the parade, much to the crowd's delight. "Nag-me-meeting ako with the writers ng ‘It’s Showtime’, tapos maingay may mga tambol. Sabi ko ‘ano yun?’... Sorry sa ABS security, kasi umakyat ako sa bakod," she recalled.
The gesture was met with praise from netizens and participants alike, who appreciated her effort to connect with the community. "At least doon nakita ko, naramdaman ko kahit papaano. Nakakaway man lang ako sa mga nagpaparada," she said, reflecting on the positive interaction.
On the other hand, Vice Ganda turned heads when she showed up for a picture at the Quezon Memorial Circle wearing the Amsterdam Rainbow Dress. The garment represents the continuous struggle for LGBTQIA+ rights and is made up of flags from countries where being LGBTQIA+ is illegal. Pride PH posted a photo of Vice Ganda wearing the garment on Instagram, which helped spread the word about the event.
While the concert-like performance remains uncertain, Vice Ganda remains hopeful for a rescheduled event. "I am still waiting for a heads-up from the Pride PH and QC government. Kasi nanghihinayang din sila," she stated.
In celebration of Pride Month, Vice Ganda also shared a heartfelt tribute to her husband, Ion Perez, on social media. Reflecting on their relationship, she emphasized their challenges and triumphs together, ending with a message of hope and pride for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Despite the setbacks, Vice Ganda's dedication to the Pride movement and her community shines brightly, embodying the spirit of resilience and unity that Pride represents.