MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Ad Hoc Marketing’s “Graduation Rights,” a landmark event held in Quezon City during Pride Month of 2024, earned Silver at the 4th Annual Anthem Awards under the Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion – Public Service Category.
“Graduation Rights” was the only entry from the Philippines to be both a finalist and winner in this year’s edition. This also marks the agency’s first international recognition.
Presented by The Webby Awards, the Anthem Awards honor exceptional social impact initiatives from individuals, organizations, and businesses worldwide. The 2024 edition saw fierce competition, with over 2,300 submissions from 34 countries.
“Graduation Rights” made history as the first symbolic graduation ceremony for the LGBTQIA+ community, championing their right to graduate as their authentic selves. The event welcomed Rainbow Graduates of all ages, genders, and representation, offering them the complete graduation experience—complete with personalized diplomas, professional photos, and an empowering address from actress, TV host, and LGBTQIA+ advocate, Kaladkaren.
Many of the Rainbow Graduates previously faced exclusion from graduation ceremonies unless they conformed to appearances that misaligned with their sexual orientation, gender identity, expression, or characteristics (SOGIESC). This exclusion persists despite the Department of Education’s Gender Responsive Basic Education Policy (No. 32, s. 2017), which affirms the rights of students to dress according to their gender identity.
Mark Blanco, Chief Creative Officer of Ad Hoc, emphasized the campaign’s significance amidst the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the country. “Graduation Rights are everyone’s rights – regardless of SOGIE. Hopefully, in the future, schools in the Philippines will be more inclusive and there won’t be a need for an event like this.”
With “Graduation Rights” now celebrated on the international stage, the event’s profound impact and its role in advancing the gender rights movement in the Philippines gained further recognition. Winning this award not only brings prestige to the agency, but also serves as a beacon of pride for the entire country.
“What an honor it is for ‘Graduation Rights’ to be recognized on the global stage in this year’s Anthem Awards. To be the only winner from the Philippines – a silver, at that – is overwhelming,” said Henson Wongaiham, Ad Hoc’s Co-founder and Managing Partner.
This global accolade highlights Ad Hoc’s commitment to creating meaningful social change. Building from its legacy, Ad Hoc has consistently been at the forefront of creatively effective and purposeful works. Since the agency started, it has always delivered impactful advocacies for the benefit of society. With “Graduation Rights” winning an award, Ad Hoc further solidifies its position as a pioneer in advocacy-driven creativity in the industry.
Building on the success of “Graduation Rights,” Ad Hoc is driven to inspire more people, pursue impactful advocacy campaigns, and reach new milestones. The agency remains dedicated to championing inclusivity and promoting gender rights through its innovative, purpose-led initiatives.
“This recognition inspires us to continue our passion for creating movements for the greater good,” added Henson. “We look forward to doing more.”
