ILOILO CITY – An ordinance against gender discrimination has been approved in Roxas City, the capital of Capiz, which coincided with the celebration of Pride Month this June.
Roxas City Ordinance No. 028-2022 promotes the rights and welfare of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgenders, queers, intersex, asexuals, and pansexual partners (LGBTQIAP+).
Principally authored by Councilor Cesar Yap with the backing of Councilor Trina Almalbis- Ignacio, the ordinance also mandates creation of the Roxas City Pride Council (RCPC).
The RCPC, which will be chaired by the city mayor, will mainly monitor the implementation of the ordinance.
The RCPC is also the proper avenue to address various violations against the LGBTQIAP+, including harassment and discriminatory practices such as denying access to job opportunities, basic services, or entry to public venues.
Violators can be fined with a minimum penalty of P1,000 and a maximum of P15,000 with imprisonment of not less than 60 days.
The RCPC can also help “facilitate and assist victim of stigma and discrimination to ensure they have legal representation, counseling, and psychological assistance.”
The passage of the ordinance was welcomed by the Capiz LGBTQIAP+ community.
The administration of Roxas City Mayor Ronnie Dadivas welcomes the ordinance that promotes love and not hate.