GILBERT MACALALAD
PRESIDENT-Malapad na Parang Chapter
MEMBER SINCE:
2016
PRONOUNS:
HE / HIM / HIS
WHO I AM:
I am Gilbert Manalo Macalalad, proudly born and raised in Malapad na Parang, Lobo, Batangas. I’m an only child, now walking life’s journey without my beloved parents, who both passed away a few years ago due to terminal illness. Losing them was one of the hardest chapters of my life. But even in their absence, I hold on to everything they taught me to stay grounded, to keep moving forward, and to never stop chasing my dreams.
Today, I carry their love and wisdom in my heart as a husband and a proud father to a beautiful 6-year-old son. My family is my daily reminder that even through loss, life can bloom in beautiful and unexpected ways.
Those who know me often say I’m gifted, not only with talents like singing, dancing, and sketching, but also with a heart that refuses to give up.
Growing up as a gay man in a traditional town wasn't always easy. I faced my share of judgment, silence, and being misunderstood. But I never allowed those challenges to define me. Instead, I used every hardship as a stepping stone, a reason to stand taller and dream bigger.
Ever since I was young, I believed that I was born not just to survive, but to inspire. That even when the world seemed unfair, I held on to the belief that dreams are not only for the privileged — they are for the brave. I continue to fight not only for my place in the world but for the rightful place of every person who has ever felt unseen or unworthy.
MY ADVOCACY:
I fight for equality, dignity, and the basic human rights of every individual, regardless of gender, background, or status. No one deserves to be treated as “less than.”
My advocacy is rooted in compassion and fueled by experience. I know what it’s like to be silenced and that is why I raise my voice. I strive to make sure others are heard, protected, and valued. Whether it's through community outreach, representation, or simply being present, I stand for a world where love wins, rights are respected, and no one is left behind.
I believe in this truth: You don’t have to be famous to make an impact. You just have to care enough not to quit.
WHY I SERVE:
I serve because service gives meaning to my journey.
Every time I see someone smile because they feel safe, supported, or seen, that’s my purpose fulfilled. What drives me is the knowledge that my presence, no matter how small, can spark change. I serve because I’ve known what it feels like to be without help and I vowed to never let anyone in my community feel that alone again.
To serve is not my obligation. It’s my honor.
