Vice President Sara Duterte led on Tuesday the distribution of PHP300,000 worth of grants to members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer plus (LGBTQ+) community who have excelled in businesses here.

The recipients consisted of 20 LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs receiving PHP15,000 each through the “Mag Negosyo Ta ‘Day” grants.

“Equality and non-discrimination are important because these give peaceful living in our communities,” Duterte said in a media interview on the second year of the Pride Reception hosted by the Office of the Vice President (OVP).

The OVP Pride Reception aims to amplify voices, raise awareness, and foster dialogue that advances LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance within Philippine society, she added.

Last year, four organizations and groups in other parts of the country received PHP150,000 for their respective businesses.

This year’s event was organized in partnership with LGBT Pilipinas, Inc. (PNA)