Iloilo Mayor Jose S. Espinosa III declared the city as “LGBT-friendly”, with plan to establish an office that will develop programs and activities for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.
Espinosa said he is also looking into hiring an executive assistant for LGBT affairs.
“Here in Iloilo, we don’t frown upon as to what these people choose. We want to give them self-respect,” Espinosa was quoted as saying by BusinessWorld.
In June, the Iloilo City Council approved an anti-discrimination ordinance that penalizes discrimination based on sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, descent, ethnic origin, and religious beliefs.
Iloilo City passes anti-discrimination ordinance on final reading
The ADO also mandates the creation of the anti-discrimination mediation and conciliation board headed by the mayor. This board will initiate the filing of cases against violators.
Iloilo City is slated to hold its 3rd Iloilo Pride parade on Oct. 13.
