Only a few public figures in the Philippines have influenced the entertainment scene the way Vice Ganda has. Widely regarded as one of the country’s most influential LGBTQIA+ personalities, the comedian, actor, television host, and entrepreneur has broken long-standing molds and challenged traditional standards while earning the admiration of audiences from all walks of life. That same spirit of inclusion and empowerment took center stage once again as Vice headlined the grand return of White Party Manila 2026 during Bang Pineda’s fashion show.
Held on June 27 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, White Party Manila marked one of the biggest Pride Month celebrations in the country, gathering thousands of members of the LGBTQIA+ community alongside allies for an evening dedicated to equality, self-expression, and acceptance. Dressed in a striking all-white ensemble, Vice Ganda became one of the event’s biggest highlights as volunteer ambassador of the celebration.
One of the night’s most meaningful moments came during the ceremonial donation turnover in support of Love Yourself, a nonprofit organization that provides free HIV testing, treatment access, mental health support, sexual health education, and other services that promote the overall well-being of the Filipino LGBTQIA+ community.
Originally, the fundraising efforts generated P700,000 for the organization. In a surprise announcement, however, event organizer Mentorque pledged an additional P300,000, bringing the total donation to P1 million.
As host KaladKaren announced before the crowd, “Because every act of kindness deserves to go even further, our friends from Mentorque Inc. have decided to make tonight even more meaningful. They are officially increasing that amount to one million pesos! Napakahusay!”
The announcement drew cheers from thousands of attendees, turning an already festive evening into an inspiring display of generosity and community support.
Welcoming Vice back to the stage, KaladKaren introduced the superstar with enthusiasm: “Let us welcome back on stage, Asia’s Unkabogable Superstar, Vice Gandaaa!”
Vice then greeted the sea of partygoers with a heartfelt Pride message.
“Happy Pride, Madlang Pipoooool! Happy Pride sa lahat ng malaya, sa lahat ng mga nag-aantay pang malaya, sa lahat ng mga hindi pa pinapalaya pero nagdadasal na makalaya na. Happy Pride sa ating lahat. Happy Pride sa lahat ng members of LGBTQIA+ community! Sa lahat ng mga nagmamahal sa LGBTQIA+ community, sa lahat ng kamag-anak, pamilya, magulang, kapatid, at kaibigan ng aming komunidad, binabati ko po kayong lahat. Happy Pride sa ating lahat!”
Mentorque said Vice Ganda embodied everything White Party Manila sought to celebrate.
“Vice Ganda is the perfect person to represent everything White Party Manila stands for: authenticity, courage, and joy,” the Mentorque team shared. “Having Vice as the face of this year’s comeback feels more meaningful, especially as we reignite the spirit of Pride through celebration, community, and purpose while delivering a Pride night to remember.”
White Party Manila’s signature all-white dress code also became a grand fashion showcase, with celebrities arriving in standout white and silver ensembles. Among those spotted at the event were Janella Salvador, Mimiyuuuh, Chie Filomeno, Alex Diaz, Kirk Bondad, Ron Angeles, and Teejay Marquez.
Also joining the celebration were comedian John Lapus, OPM artist Ice Seguerra and wife Liza Diño, actor Martin del Rosario, and veteran actress Yayo Aguila. Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano, and Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte were awarded as allies who push for LGBTQIA+ causes and make their cities inclusive.
Beyond its advocacy, White Party Manila transformed the venue into a massive celebration of music, fashion, and Filipino talent. The entertainment lineup featured performances from Maki, Gloc-9, Marina Summers, Ben&Ben, and the SexBomb Girls led by Rochelle Pangilinan. These artists kept the crowd energized throughout the evening.
The event also recognized the enduring cultural influence of the SexBomb Girls, who received the “Gay Icon of the Year” honor during the celebration.
With Vice Ganda leading the celebration and Mentorque reinforcing its commitment through a P1-million contribution to Love Yourself, White Party Manila’s long-awaited return proved that Pride is also about creating impact, strengthening the bond of communities, and ensuring that acts of compassion reach even more people who need them.
