The provincial government of La Union is reportedly fast-tracking the approval of its version of the “Right to Care” ordinance that aims to grant LGBTQIA+ people in relationships, as well as long-term unmarried partners the authority to make critical medical decisions for one another during emergencies.
Currently, existing laws only allow immediate family members, as well as legally married spouses to make medical decisions for people. And so their partners can be excluded from signing medical waivers, accessing intensive care units, or deciding on life-saving treatments since they do not have legal standing.
According to board member Maria Rosario Eufrosina Nisce, the current legal frameworks completely sideline lifelong companions when they are needed most, creating the systemic helplessness unmarried couples face during medical crises.
With provincial governor Mario Eduardo Ortega affirming his support for the measure, the ordinance is being paired with the establishment of a permanent Gender and Development (GAD) office, which will also oversee hospital compliance and protect patient rights in the province.
The ordinance is now with the provincial board.
Once passed, La Union will follow Laguna and Cavite among the provinces to uphold the rights of LGBTQIA+ people in relationships to make medical decisions for their partners.
