With “freedom” loosely defined these days, the term finds a more colorful meaning among the LGBTQ community just in time for the country’s 120th Araw Ng Kalayaan commemoration.

[related: In Focus: This Independence Day, These LGBTQ Personalities Redefine What 'Freedom' Means]

Celebrity photographer BJ Pascual, beauty blogger Mikki Galang, athlete Ponggay Gaston, neurologist Ryan Roxas, Girl Nation host Nariese Giangan, art director Mike Lavarez, and fitness coach Frank Hoban come together and stand as today’s young icons of freedom. Here, watch them redefine what it really means to be “malaya” in this era.

ALSO READ: Hot Stuff: Manila's Newest Hotspot Poblacion, Makati Pulls Of An Epic 'Independence Day' Party!

Produced by Camille Santiago | Creative direction by Barry Viloria | Photography by Vyn Radovan | Shot by Tin Zabat | Edited by Lui Jimenez | Makeup Patrick Alcober, Jinx Agabao, and Maws Diaz of Make Up For Ever | Sam Corbillon of Triple Luck Brow and Nail Salon | Shot on location at City Garden Grand Hotel | Special thanks to Margarette Domingo | Banner image by Lui Jimenez