Maxie Andreison New Single, ‘Laban’ for Equality

“Drag Race PH” star says LGBTQIA+ community remains “tolerated,” not fully accepted

“‘Wag mong plitin itiman ang bahaghari…”

A line that refuses erasure, just like the message behind “Drag Race PH” S3 standout Maxie Andreison’s unapologetic fight song, “Laban.”

During a media conference on Monday, the singer-songwriter and drag artist said the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines remains merely “tolerated,” not fully “accepted.”

Without clear legal protections against gender-based discrimination, Maxie raised a pressing question: Are we truly safe? “Every day nakakatanggap tayo ng bullying, discrimination, sinasaktan, may pinapatay pa,” she said.

While the Philippines is frequently ranked as one of the most gender-equal countries in Asia—placing 16th globally in gender parity—statistics reveal persistent gaps and high rates of gender-based violence and discrimination against women and the LGBTQ+ community.

For Maxie, “Laban” is more than a finale track—it’s a statement and a call to action. “Gusto ko ’tong maging anthem ng bawat baklang Pilipino… ito ’yung dapat nating marinig,” she asserted.