SexBomb Girls were recently honored with the Gay Icon of the Year award, recognizing their lasting impact on the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines.
The award was presented during White Party Manila 2026, where the group also performed on Saturtday, June 27, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. The organizers cited the group's cultural influence, iconic dance routines, and enduring popularity within queer spaces as key reasons for the recognition.
“Sa wakas!” Rochelle Pangilinan exclaimed during their acceptance speech.
“Maraming nagsasabi na pinalaki namin sila. At maraming nagsasabi na kami ang dahilan— Joke lang.”
Event host Kaladkaren quickly added, “Kaya mga naging bakla! I love it!”
The dancer-actress then continued, “Isang karangalan na bigyan n'yo po kami ng ganitong klaseng parangal, ang Gay Icon of the Year, dito po sa White Party. Maraming salamat po!
“Kung kailan kami nagbalik, saka n'yo kami in-award-an. Ang tagal na namin sa industriya. Pero ganunpaman, dumarating ito in God's perfect time. At ito ang tamang panahon for that. Maraming, maraming salamat po!”
Before leaving the stage, SexBomb Aira also left a message for the LGBTQIA+ community: “Sa lahat ng naging bakla dahil sa amin, kayo po ang inspirasyon ng SexBomb. Without you, walang SexBomb. Thank you so much.”
As a treat to the audience, the SexBomb Girls performed their hit songs “Spageti Song” and “Halukay Ube,” which became staples in Filipino pop culture and remain widely embraced in LGBTQIA+ celebrations, drag performances, and nostalgia-driven events.
Aside from SexBomb Dancers, White Party Manila, which was organized by Mentorque together with Love Yourself, also recognized City Mayors who make sure that their respective cities are safer, more inclusive, and more supportive of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, and Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto Rubiano were each given an Ally of the Year in Public Sector award.
Here are some highlights of the White Party Manila:
After 12 years, Mentorque, together with Love Yourself, brings back one of the biggest Pride celebrations in the country, the White Party Manila, held on Saturday, June 27, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. In this photo is Mentorque Productions founder Bryan Dy.
To set the mood for the party, DJs Hoest and Reeder kept the energy high with a vibrant mix of music.
Marina Summers drew the loudest cheers from the audience after delivering an outstanding performance.
Pinoy master rapper Gloc-9 showed support for the LGBTQIA+ community by performing some of his hits, including “Sirena,” which relates to struggles, resilience, and identity of a gay man.
Filipino pop folk band Ben&Ben tells the LGBTQIA+ community, “Pipiliin namin kayo araw-araw.”
Despite coming straight from hosting the Love Laban Pride Festival 2026 in Quezon City, KaladKaren remained full of energy as she took the stage at White Party.
Martin del Rosario and Yayo Aguila also joined the Pride celebration to promote Mentorque-produced film Tayo Lang Ang Nakakaalam, which is part of the upcoming Cinemalaya Film Festival.
Dressed in a whimsical, fairy-like ensemble by Bang Pineda, Vice Ganda turned heads—made even more magical with a pony beside her.
The White Party Manila, through Vice Ganda, turns over a donation of a million pesos to Love Yourself in support of its projects and advocacies.
The SexBomb Girls are officially recognized as Gay Icons, cementing their lasting impact on pop culture and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Janella Salvador and Mimiyuuuh owned the ramp with a stylish Pride march, showcasing the stunning creations of Bang Pineda.
Maki opened the fashion show by performing his hit song “Dilaw.”
Die Beautiful: The Musical actress Maxie Andreison was among the drag queens who came to celebrate Pride Month at the White Party Manila.