Rep. Javier Miguel Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd District) has co-authored House Bill No. 5266, a measure that seeks to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC).
The bill co-authored with Representatives Brian Poe (FPJ Panday Bayanihan party-list) and Ryan Recto (Batangas, 6th District) was filed on Tuesday, Oct. 7.
It aims to provide legal safeguards for members of the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring equal protection and dignity under the law.
Benitez said what while the Philippine Constitution guarantees equality, there remains no enabling law that upholds this right for LGBTQ+ Filipinos.
The proposed SOGIESC Equality Bill defines and penalizes acts of discrimination, such as denial of employment, education, access to public services, and harassment based on one’s gender identity or sexual orientation.
The measure also seeks to address the social and economic exclusion faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and promote respect for diversity and inclusivity in all sectors of society.
“This bill is a vital step toward building a nation that upholds the dignity and equality of every Filipino, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression,” the explanatory note stated.
The bill builds on previous efforts in Congress, including the SOGIE Equality Bill which passed on third reading in the 17th Congress but has yet to become law, it said.
The lawmakers reiterated that the absence of such legislation leaves millions without legal protection, underscoring the urgency of passing the measure.*