UP SAMASKOM's 'Live A.I.D.S.' Returns with Laughter, Music, and a Powerful Pride Celebration

In a vibrant display of comedy, music, and solidarity, UP SAMASKOM's long-running production, Live A.I.D.S., took to the stage for its 36th run, titled 'Let There Be Laughs.' Held from June 26 to 28 at the IBG-KAL Theatre in UP Diliman, this year's edition was more than just an entertaining showcase; it was a celebration of equality, diversity, and inclusivity, coinciding with the Lovelaban Pride PH Festival 2026.

The Lovelaban Pride PH Festival, which took place on June 27 at UP Diliman, was a grand celebration of love, identity, and acceptance, featuring a Pride Expo, Pride March, Pride Night, and Pride Villages in Maginhawa Street and Araneta City, Cubao. Thousands gathered to mark one of the country's largest Pride celebrations, making the weekend a poignant moment for UP SAMASKOM's annual production.

Dubbed 'Let There Be Laughs,' this year's Live A.I.D.S. invited audiences to 'turn on the laughter' through an energetic mix of comedy, music, and social commentary. Staying true to its legacy, the show tackled timely issues with humor while delivering heartfelt performances that entertained and inspired. For decades, Live A.I.D.S. has been one of the country's most anticipated student-led theatrical productions, not only providing an unforgettable night of entertainment but also serving as a creative training ground for aspiring performers, writers, directors, and production talents.

The production has played a significant role in shaping the careers of several well-known personalities, including Kim Atienza, RS Francisco, Raymond Lauchengco, Wency Cornejo, Ate Glow, Michelle O'Bombshell, Tuesday Vargas, Mrs. Tan, and Jervi Wrightson, popularly known as KaladKaren. As audiences filled the theater throughout its three-day run, Live A.I.D.S. once again proved why it remains a beloved UP SAMASKOM tradition, bringing people together through laughter, music, and meaningful storytelling while standing alongside the LGBTQIA+ community to celebrate Pride, inclusivity, and self-expression.

The timing of Live A.I.D.S. with the Lovelaban Pride PH Festival 2026 underscored the importance of solidarity and support for the LGBTQIA+ community. It highlighted the role that events like these play in fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding. Through its mix of comedy and social commentary, Live A.I.D.S. addressed issues that are both timely and timeless, making it a relevant and impactful production that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.

In addition to its entertainment value, Live A.I.D.S. has become an institution that nurtures talent and provides a platform for creative expression. It stands as a testament to the power of arts and culture in bringing about change and promoting inclusivity. As UP SAMASKOM continues to uphold this tradition, it also reinforces the importance of student-led initiatives in driving social awareness and celebrating diversity.

The success of Live A.I.D.S. and its alignment with the Lovelaban Pride PH Festival 2026 demonstrate the growing awareness and support for LGBTQIA+ rights in the Philippines. It reflects a broader societal shift towards greater inclusivity and acceptance, with events like these serving as beacons of hope and solidarity for marginalized communities.