03/11/2025
🏳️🌈 History of LGBT Kanlu
The LGBT community has long been a vibrant part of Barangay Kanluran, existing even before any formal organization was established. However, it was only after 2007 that an official LGBT group was formed — the Pinkk Society.
The Pinkk Society became the pioneering organization that actively participated in and organized LGBT-related events in the barangay, such as Sagalahan, Miss Gay, and other cultural and festive activities that showcased pride, creativity, and unity.
As years passed, when Glamorosa Santa Rosa was established, the barangay group evolved and was renamed Glamorosa Kanluran. The organization then began extending its reach by supporting city-wide LGBT projects and events, representing Kanluran with pride and inclusivity.
A new chapter began on June 5, 2022, when the organization’s pillars — Danica Gee, Glenn De Leon, Regie Amalin, Rodwen Santiago, and Direk Melvin Laza — held an important meeting. During the discussion, then Glamorosa Kanluran President Glenn De Leon proposed organizing a Barangay Miss Gay event.
It was Rodwen Santiago who suggested a new and progressive concept — “Why not a pageant for both boys and girls?” The idea was met with enthusiasm, and thus, the Ginoo at Rosas ng Kanluran was born — the first-ever pageant in Santa Rosa to follow the official city branding of pageants.
From that milestone, the group continued to grow and became more active in the community by organizing activities such as the Kanluran Trick or Treat, Pride March, LGBT Assembly, and by supporting barangay-initiated projects and events.
It was also then that the organization officially embraced its new identity —
✨ LGBT Kanlu ✨
The name Kanlu represents not only Barangay Kanluran but also Kanlungan, symbolizing a safe haven for all LGBTQIA+ individuals — a place where everyone is accepted, nurtured, and free to be their true selves.
Today, LGBT Kanlu proudly upholds its motto:
🌈 “One Pride, One Kanlu.”
Guided by unity and purpose, LGBT Kanlu continues to be a partner and helping hand of the barangay officials, championing inclusivity, equality, and community through meaningful events and projects for all Kanlurenses.
