At McDonald’s Philippines, inclusivity isn’t a slogan—it’s a lived reality. For every employee, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, the Golden Arches aren’t just a place to work—they’re a place to belong, to grow, and to thrive. Here, support for the LGBTQ+ community isn’t reserved for Pride Month. It’s part of everyday life.
This year, McDonald’s proudly celebrates pride by reaffirming its powerful message: Love ko All, Welcome All. Through real stories from its LGBTQ+ employees, the beloved quick-service restaurant shows what it means to create a workplace where everyone feels safe, seen, and empowered to be their best selves.
Finding belonging from day one
For 42-year-old Rachelle David, restaurant general manager (RGM) at McDonald’s Karuhatan, stepping into McDonald’s was more than just a career move—it was the start of a personal transformation.
“I had grown my hair long—not just for style, but to hide parts of who I was,” David shared. “I didn’t know if I could be myself. But the moment I walked through those doors, I felt safe. It felt like home.”
Before joining McDonald’s, David worked in a call center. Today, she’s found more than just a job—she’s found the confidence to live authentically. “McDonald’s gave me the space to grow into myself, to feel seen, and to finally be proud of who I am.”
Outside work, David enjoys weekend getaways and catching movies. Her advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community is matched by her passion for the environment—proof that her journey of growth extends far beyond the workplace.
Yober Leonardo, People/Training Coordinator and QA Partner at McDonald’s, echoed that same feeling of welcome.
“I was nervous on my first day,” said the 34-year-old. “But everyone was so warm and supportive. I felt like I belonged from the very start.”
Leonardo, known for his love of dancing and party-hosting, found a workplace where he could be unapologetically himself. “What I love most is the atmosphere. There’s trust, respect, and a true sense of family here.”
A safe space to be your true self
At McDonald’s Philippines, employees are empowered to be their “Best Me”—a guiding principle that drives the company’s inclusive culture.
“Here, everyone is treated with respect,” said Mark Jason Armintia, RGM of McDonald’s Nueno. “I’m given equal opportunities, and because I feel valued, I give my best back to the company and our customers.”
Armintia, 39, used to be a guest relations officer in Kuwait. Joining McDonald’s wasn’t just a career shift—it was a transformation. “McDonald’s didn’t just meet my expectations. It helped me grow as a person and as a leader.”
For David, the value of acceptance became clear over time. “Being in a place that celebrates every identity makes a huge difference. You’re not just surviving—you’re thriving.”
Leonardo agreed: “McDonald’s is where I found my voice. I’ve built friendships, found family, and most importantly, felt truly accepted. Here, I never have to hide who I am.”
Mpowered to be ‘the Best Me’
For these team members, being accepted means being empowered.
“Working at McDonald’s brings out the best in me,” said Armintia. “I’m more productive, more motivated, and I’ve grown into someone I’m proud of.”
David added, “Loud and proud—there’s no need to pretend. I don’t have to dress a certain way or look a certain way to fit in. I’m embraced for who I am. That kind of freedom changed my life.”
Love Ko All in action
Beyond individual stories, McDonald’s Philippines marked Pride Month with bold, inclusive action.
At its McKinley West branch in Taguig, the iconic Golden Arches lit up in rainbow—a vibrant symbol of welcome and inclusion that started in 2023.
On June 27, McDonald’s hosted its Love Ko All Employee Day nationwide—a powerful celebration of diversity, inclusion, and solidarity. Employees across stores and offices came together for games, talks, and shared learning. Speakers from Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride and the Philippine Commission on Women led discussions on SOGIESC, allyship, and safe spaces in the workplace.
McDonald’s also showed up strong at major Pride events in Quezon City, Cebu, and Cagayan de Oro—marching with pride and inviting members of the LGBTQ+ community to join the McDonald’s family. For the second year, McDo joined the Quezon City Pride March and proudly debuted at Cebu Pride, making a strong statement: You’re welcome here. Always.
And because Pride is also about joy, McDonald’s brought the celebration to its customers with the Love Ko All Double McFloat Deal—two colorful flavors for only P79, available exclusively on the McDonald’s App.
McDonald’s Philippines isn’t just celebrating pride. It’s living it—day in, day out. Through real stories, real action, and unwavering commitment, the company proves that Love Ko All, Welcome All isn’t just a tagline. It’s a promise kept, every single day.