McDonald’s Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to workplace inclusion by sharing the experiences of LGBTQ+ employees and holding company-wide activities for Pride Month under its ongoing “Love Ko All, Welcome All” campaign.
The fast food chain said it continues to provide a safe and supportive environment where all employees—regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation—can thrive personally and professionally. Several LGBTQ+ employees from various stores shared how the company helped them feel accepted and empowered in the workplace.
Rachelle David, 42, a restaurant general manager at McDonald’s Karuhatan, said she found a sense of belonging the moment she joined the company after working in the BPO industry.
“I wasn’t sure if I could be myself,” David said. “But the moment I stepped in, something shifted. It felt like home. I felt safe just being me.”
David, who is also active in environmental advocacy, said McDonald’s gave her space to grow and gain confidence in expressing her identity. “It’s a space where I felt seen and started feeling proud of who I am.”
Yober Leonardo, 34, who serves as People/Training Coordinator and QA Partner, said the support he received early in his career gave him a strong sense of belonging.
“Everyone was welcoming and patient. What I love most about being here is the atmosphere,” he said. “I feel accomplished and truly able to be myself.”
Mark Jason Armintia, 39, now a restaurant general manager at McDonald’s Nueno, worked as a guest relations officer in Kuwait before joining the company. He said being treated fairly and given equal opportunities at McDonald’s has allowed him to grow in his role.
“Because of the acknowledgment I feel in McDonald’s, I give it back through excellent service to customers,” he said.
For this year’s Pride Month, McDonald’s organized a series of events across the country, including transforming its McKinley West branch in Taguig into a rainbow-themed store, a tradition started in 2023.
On June 27, the company held its “Love Ko All Employee Day,” with stores and offices nationwide celebrating diversity with games and learning sessions. Speakers from Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride and the Philippine Commission on Women were invited to discuss topics such as SOGIESC, workplace allyship, and safe spaces.
McDonald’s also took part in major Pride events in Quezon City, Cebu City, and Cagayan de Oro City, joining the Pride Marches in Quezon City for the second year and making its debut in Cebu. The brand used these appearances to reach out to members of the LGBTQ+ community who may be considering a career with McDonald’s.
In addition to internal initiatives, McDonald’s offered a Pride-themed McFloat deal on its app, available in flavors like cotton candy, grape, and raspberry.
The company said the “Love Ko All” message goes beyond marketing and reflects its everyday reality as an employer that values inclusion.
“Working at McDonald’s brings out the best in me,” said Armintia. “It increases my productivity, boosts my job satisfaction, and helps me grow with the company.”
David added, “I don’t need to pretend to fit in. At McDonald’s, I was accepted for who I really am.”
