The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) pressed for the passage of the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity or Expression (SOGIE) Equality Bill that would ensure full recognition of equal rights and increase acceptance of the members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex (LGBTQI) community.
Executive Director Jacqueline Ann de Guia said the CHR lauds the efforts of the Carigar town in Leyte and Roxas City for championing the rights of the LGBTQI members.
De Guia said the local government of Carigara issued a resolution that condemns any form of discrimination against the LGBTQI community and even organized a concert in celebration of the “Pride Month” last June, which they plan to make an annual tradition. Once session reopens, the local government intends to craft an anti-discrimination ordinance, she said.
Roxas City, on the other hand, has already passed Ordinance No. 028-2022 that promotes the rights and welfare of LGBTQI members. They even established the Roxas City Pride Council, which would monitor the implementation of the ordinance, De Guia said.
She also said the city council will also address various violations against the LGBTQI community and facilitate assistance for victims of stigma and discrimination in the form of legal representation, counseling, and psychological assistance.
"CHR commends these local efforts that demonstrate concrete support and genuine acceptance for the LGBTQI community," she said.
Also, the CHR lauded the efforts of the City of Manila, Bataan, Albay, Malolos City, and Pasig City during the Covid-19 pandemic since these LGUs passed their version of anti-discrimination ordinances.
"We are hopeful of the increasing local support and look forward to more LGUs implementing their own equality and anti-discrimination measures," said said.