The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) reiterated its support of the LGBTQIA+ community, stressing that – as the world marks Pride Month this June – “Pride… is not only a celebration of diversity; it is also an affirmation of the right of every person to be recognized, respected, and treated equally, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics (SOGIESC). It is a reminder that human rights begin with the recognition of our shared humanity and the equal worth of every individual.”
As the country’s Gender Ombud, the CHR state that it recognizes the progress made in adopting gender-inclusive policies and practices. However, “while these developments are encouraging, significant challenges remain.”
“Many LGBTQIA+ Filipinos continue to experience discrimination, harassment, exclusion, and unequal treatment in various aspects of life. Cases involving the profiling and harassment of transgender persons in public spaces, denial of benefits for same-sex partners, discriminatory hiring practices, and other forms of prejudice underscore the urgent need for stronger and more consistent legal protection,” the agency noted.
For the CHR, policymakers need to prioritize the passage of the SOGIESC Bill and the Comprehensive Anti-Discrimination Bill since “these measures are critical to institutionalizing protection against discrimination and ensuring that all persons can participate fully in society and access their rights without fear, invisibility, or exclusion.”
In the end, for CHR, the push should be to establish a “truly inclusive society” where “every person is recognized for who they are, treated with dignity and respect, and able to live openly, safely, and equally. Recognition is not a privilege granted by society—it is a reflection of the inherent dignity and humanity that every person possesses.”
