LESSON 20: Discrimination on the Basis of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE) in the Philippines

The Universal Policy

Articles 2(1), 3, and 26 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) ensure respect, equality, and non-discrimination for all individuals, regardless of race, color, or sex. In the landmark decision of Toonen v. Australia (1994), it was determined that the term "sex" in these articles includes sexual orientation. Laws criminalizing consensual homosexual acts violate privacy protections under the ICCPR.

National and Local Policies

Local Government Units (LGUs) in the Philippines have passed ordinances banning LGBTQ+ discrimination, with the pending Anti-Discrimination Bill expected to become law.

Quezon City

Enacted anti-discrimination in employment in 2004 and supplemented with LGBTQ+-friendly provisions in the Gender and Development Ordinance.

Albay Province and Bacolod City

Passed anti-discrimination ordinances.

Angeles City

Passed anti-discrimination legislation and created a Gay Rights Desk.

House Resolution No. 1333

House of Representative Raymond Palatino filed _____ to investigate discriminatory practices against LGBTQ+ students and explore a Comprehensive Gender Curriculum.

May 2012

When did the Department of Education (DepEd) issued Order No. 40, the Child Protection Policy?

Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines

CBCP oppose the inclusion of "sex, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity" in anti-discrimination ordinances, fearing it will affect ethics, marriage, family, and religious freedom.

Episcopal Commission on Family and Life

ECFL oppose the inclusion of "sex, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity" in anti-discrimination ordinances, fearing it will affect ethics, marriage, family, and religious freedom.

Article 25 of the ICCPR

The right to participate in public affairs, vote, and have equal access to public service without unreasonable restriction. These rights are to be enjoyed without distinctions based on sexual orientation.