Find out more about the award recipient

I am Beverley Rose Dimacuha, Representative to the Philippine Congress from the 5th District of Batangas. Prior to my present position, I served for 3 consecutive terms or 9 years as the Mayor of Batangas City. 

I am new in my job as legislator. In my previous job, I sought the implementation of laws and ordinances in our city; pursued an indigent health care program that catered to almost 30,000 families; provided scholarships to deserving yet underprivileged kids; instituted livelihood programs; strengthened our city’s disaster preparedness; and ensured peace and order. 

Now, I still continue with my advocacies particularly in the field of education by establishing libraries and learning hubs in our barangays or villages; making technical, vocational, and skills training programs available and accessible for our youth; and more importantly values formation among our young kids. Values must be learned especially at a young age. 

What one achievement you’ve accomplished that you’re most proud of? Why?

I am very proud of our city’s many achievements under my leadership. In fact, we have received many national awards in good local governance; disaster preparedness; health; environmental protection. It was also during my term as Mayor that we were able to forge a collaboration with WAGAYWAY, an LGBTQ+ organization to establish a safe space in the City Government for people of all genders and sexual orientations; PRIDE SILBI recently joined the City Government and the local church in giving free haircuts to persons deprived of liberty; Batangas City celebrated the most successful PRIDE MARCH and PRIDE Convention in our entire province; I was able to convince our State University Officials to allow trans individuals to come to school wearing their preferred uniforms. Trans people are now able to study at peace and pursue their studies with no discrimination. 

What do you find most challenging about your work? Why?

Aside from financial challenges, it is important for everyone to understand that we now live on a day and age when we must learn to respect and accept one another. We may differ in opinions or religious beliefs but our humanity unites us and should bridge us towards mutual acceptance and respect. 

What do you do to recharge your battery?

I spend my Sundays with my husband and children who regenerate my energy and strength. 

What is your vulnerability and how do you overcome it?

I wouldn’t describe myself as vulnerable. It is my determination as a leader and my willingness to sit down, discuss and cooperate with all good-intentioned sectors that guide my decisions and molded me into the person or leader that I am today. 

You have been nominated for the Community Ally category. What was your reaction and please, tell us why?

I am humbled and deeply honored to be nominated. We just do what we think is right. To be commended and acknowledged is a major bonus. 

With changes that we are currently experiencing politically affecting our movement, and sustainability, what is a warm/hopeful message that you would like to share with the communities in the Asia Pacific?

Communication is key to understanding and eventually, respect and acceptance. No one would have thought that Batangas City would have one of the most successful PRIDE marches. But we did! And people slowly see the beauty of diversity and inclusivity.

Anything else you would like to share? 

Everyone deserves to be loved, accepted, included and heard. Everyone, regardless or race, sex, age, sexual orientation or gender, when given the chance, will help make our world a better place.

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