During International Youth Day, Philippine Anti-Discrimination Alliance of Young Leaders (PANTAY) calls on the Senate to urgently hear the SOGIE Equality Bill and champion its passage to protect and empower youth.
The 2024 Olympics hosts the largest number of openly LGBTQ+ athletes competing at 193, including bronze medalist Nesthy Petecio and Hergie Bacyadan of the Philippines.
“Our first gold is from Hidilyn Diaz, a woman competing in weightlifting. Now, our second and third from Carlos Yulo, a man in gymnastics. The power that this message holds. Do not limit the opportunities for Filipino kids just because of gender stereotypes,” PANTAY Convenor Vince Liban said.
“The Olympics has shown us how excellence can emerge when we enable young people to pursue their dreams free from prejudice and gender stereotypes,” Liban added.
“Diverse individuals and families have always existed in the Philippines, building talents and raising the next generation of Filipinos. For us to empower young champions including queer young people, our senators need to champion the SOGIE Equality Bill in the plenary,” Liban said.
The SOGIE Equality Bill, a bill that seeks to protect Filipinos from SOGIE-based discrimination and violence, has been languishing in the legislative since 2000. In February 2023, the committee report was remanded to the Senate committee on rules after opposition from religious groups.
