Presidential aspirant and Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso clarified on Tuesday, Jan. 25, that he is in favor of same-sex union among the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI) community.
This after he answered “no” when he was asked if he supports same-sex marriage during The Jessica Soho Presidential Interviews on Jan. 22.
“Ang instruction kasi ni Jessica Soho, yes or no (ang sagot). At tsaka instruction ni Jessica Soho, one word. Basta sa Maynila, pantay-pantay. Walang lalaki, walang babae, walang bakla, walang tomboy and you know that very well in Manila equal ang lahat (Because Jessica Soho's instruction was to answer with just a yes or no. And Jessica Soho's instruction was that it should be one word. In Manila, there is equality. No man, no woman, no gay, no lesbian and you know that very well in Manila, everyone is equal),” Domagoso explained.
“Ngayon, in the same manner, meron din silang opportunity maglingkod sa syudad at makikita nyo ‘yan paglabas ng opisina ko (They also have the opportunity to serve the city and you will see that when you come out of my office),” he added.
The Manila mayor assured that he will continue to respect the rights of the LGBTQI community as they are an important part of society.
“Magsama sila, okay ako dun. Wala akong alinlangan, makukuha nila ‘yung buong paggalang ko at pagkilala (They can live together, I'm okay with it. Without a doubt, they will get my full respect and recognition),” he said.
The Manila mayor had earlier assured that member of the LGBTQI community will be part of his government if elected president.
Read more: Mayor Isko says LGBTQI to be part of his administration if elected as president
“I have no prejudice with people. As long as you are an asset to the state, you have talents that can be utilized in governance through public service, you are welcome,” he said.
In October last year, Domagoso signed Ordinance No. 8695 or the Manila LGBTQI Protection Ordinance, which aims to eliminate "any and all forms of discrimination against LGBTQI solely on the basis of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression (SOGIE).”
“As long as you recognize their skills, their talents, then they excel in their field of undertaking. I have high respect for people, because love begets love; respect begets respect."