Talisay exec authors pro-LGBT measure

CEBU, Philippines – The Talisay City Council passed on first reading a proposed ordinance that seeks to eliminate discrimination and ensure the rights of LGBTIQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersexed and questioning) people.

City Councilor Aldin Diaz, who authored the measure, said there is a need to protect these people from any form of discrimination at work and in seeking employment, in educational institutions, obtaining of products and services, among others.

If approved into law, the ordinance shall be called “Diversity Code of the City of Talisay.”

The ordinance seeks to provide equal rights to the members of the LGBTIQ community and deliver penalties to those who will violate it.

Section 5 of the proposed ordinance declares it unlawful for any establishment or group to refuse to provide service or programs to persons due to their age, health status, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity and religion.

Discrimination is committed, among other forms, by “subjecting either verbal or written word” against people with diverse sexual orientation and gender identifies, Dizon said.

The councilor believes his proposed ordinance is an affirmative action of the city government in understanding fairness, diversity and inclusiveness.

“There are LGBTIQ-specific programs created to address the health needs of the LGBTIQ sector. The elderly LGBTIQ, destitute and abandoned, presently have no existing care home to attend to their welfare,” Diaz said.

He added that the city government should ensure that discrimination is prevented and effectively addressed through programs such as the Comprehensive Diversity Anti-Discrimination program, access to scholarships, skills, employment and livelihood opportunities and access to legal representation.

Fines to be imposed include P1,000 for first offense; P3,000 for second and P5,000 for third.

Diaz expects the ordinance to be approved on third and final reading by next week.