From podcast conversations to the drag runway — building community through connection
On a vibrant evening in Poblacion, the spotlight shone not only on spectacular performances but also on the powerful stories behind them. This Pride Month, Converge turned the iconic Halyxon Club into a space for dialogue and empowerment through Pride Is in Your Fiber — a live recording of The XLounge Podcast featuring RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines queens Arizona Brandy, Myx Chanel, and Hana Beshie.
Hosted by Aiyana Perlas, the episode explored the queens’ personal journeys, their challenges and victories, and the communities that helped shape who they are. They shared how digital platforms have long served as vital spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals across the Philippines — places to explore, express themselves, and build supportive networks, even before drag entered the mainstream.
After the recording, guests enjoyed the full Drag Xperience, featuring electrifying performances from the three headliners alongside the talented Kings and Queens of Halyxon. Drag is far more than entertainment: it is a dynamic art form and a powerful means of self‑expression. Through dance, live vocals, theater, and character work, it celebrates identity, creativity, and authenticity — while building confidence and empowering others. These performances brought personal narratives to life, inspiring pride, acceptance, and unity among everyone present.
Throughout the night, themes of resilience, creativity, and belonging took center stage. The queens spoke about how their online presence helped them grow in confidence, advance their careers, and navigate public visibility. The evening made clear that while technology connects us, true human connection goes beyond the screen. For many in the LGBTQIA+ community, finding inclusive spaces can be life‑changing — and through The XLounge Podcast: Pride Is in Your Fiber, Converge aimed to create just that: a platform where these voices are heard, celebrated, and amplified.
More than just a recording session, this event marked a milestone for The XLounge Podcast, offering Converge subscribers an exclusive, interactive experience that turned content into a shared celebration of individuality and belonging.
Recognized by Ookla® as the Philippines’ Fastest Fixed Network, Converge builds more than just internet infrastructure — it builds connections between people. Beyond reliable connectivity, the brand supports initiatives that bring communities closer, amplify diverse voices, and create meaningful ways to engage with culture.
Pride Is in Your Fiber is more than a Pride Month special; it stands as proof of how technology can advance visibility and inclusion.
“Connection matters most when it empowers people to be seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are,” said Orange Ramirez, Vice President and Brand & Marketing Head at Converge. “Through programs like The XLounge Podcast, we bring together technology, storytelling, and community to foster understanding and honor individuality.”
As these stories reach wider audiences through the podcast and social media, one truth remains: connection is strongest when it unites us.
Pride Is in Your Fiber is now available as part of The XLounge Podcast, Converge’s original series focused on culture, community, and connection. Watch the full episode and browse past installments on Converge’s official YouTube channel: cnvrge.co/xloungepodcastspecial, or follow Converge ICT on Facebook at facebook.com/ConvergeICT.
Based on Ookla® Speedtest Intelligence® data, 2H 2025. All rights reserved.
