Sotto suggests 'reality check' on transgenders' use of restrooms
MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Tito Sotto insisted that he respects rights but he is still not in favor of allowing transgender people to use restrooms of the opposite sex.
This matter has been a subject of debate at the Senate following the case of a transgender woman who was banned from entering the women's restroom at Farmers Plaza in Cubao earlier this week.
"I am all for respecting rights. But how about the sensitivities of women who are uncomfortable with transgenders using women's restrooms; or straight men donning women's clothes," Sotto said.
The Senate leader insisted that restrooms are based on "biology."
"Lesbians cannot stand in a male only urinals. Konting reality check naman (Get a reality check)," he said.
Sen. Panfilo Lacson and Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III had earlier expressed concern that allowing transgender people to enter restrooms of the opposite sex might be exploited by voyeurs.
Rep. Geraldine Roman (Bataan), meanwhile, slammed this comment from the senator.
"It's really a question that we have to ask of all people. It's really absurd to have to ask this question," Roman told ANC's "Headstart".
The transgender lawmaker also said Sotto's previous comment on the issue was irrelevant.
Sotto earlier suggested calling members of the LGBTQIA+ community as just "homo sapiens" as the acronym has become a mouthful.
“I think Sen. Tito Sotto was trying to be funny. That was his usual self but the term 'homo sapiens' is irrelevant," Roman said. — Patricia Lourdes Viray
- Latest
- Trending
