Philippines: Quezon City passes law banning anti-gay discrimination

Philippines’ largest city Quezon has approved ordinance that bans anti-gay discrimination.

The law was passed unanimously on Monday by more than 30 city councillors.

Gind Cristobal, the project coordinator for the Asia Pacific International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights commission, told GMA News that it was an “early gift” ahead of the city’s Pride event in December.

He said: “This is very special and better than other ordinances, because it not only penalises actions, but there is also affirmative action.”
The ordinance expands a 2003 law that focused only on workplace discrimination.

The new law includes education, delivery of goods or services, insurance, and access to accommodation.

Same-sex sexual activity is not a crime in the country.
However same-sex marriage is not recognised, and gay couples are unable to adopt. Transgender people are unable to legally change their gender or first name.

In June, fifteen children who were working at a gay bar in Quezon City were detained by authorities.