Tuckahoe NY Pride

Hergie “The Wolf” Bacyadan is a Filipino boxer whose rise from amateur standout to international contender has included visible LGBTQ representation in sport. Openly lesbian, she has spoken about the pressure athletes face to hide their identity and about the dignity that comes from competing without apology. Her story highlights everyday discrimination—from locker-room culture to online abuse—while also showing how family, coaches, and federations can create safer environments. By pairing elite performance with candid advocacy, Bacyadan helps normalize queer athletes in the Philippines and inspires young LGBTQ people to pursue athletics and self-acceptance. She calls for respect in boxing spaces.

Quote: “Understanding my path may require empathy and an open mind, but at the core, it is about acknowledging my right to pursue my dreams in my own way!”

Photo credit Joseph Pascual