Duterte Backs Anti-Discrimination Law and Civil Union Act for LGBTQIA+
Building on her bold Pride Month message, Vice President Sara Duterte made headlines on June 25, 2025, by publicly endorsing two landmark bills: the Full Anti-Discrimination Act and the Civil Union Act. Speaking at the Office of the Vice President’s Pride event in San Fernando City, Pampanga, Duterte called on lawmakers and citizens alike to support legal protections and recognition for the country’s LGBTQIA+ community. These proposals signal a major step toward equality and inclusion in Philippine law, and reflect the Vice President’s growing profile as a champion for LGBT rights throughout Pride Month.
Read full story at GMA News
Complete Anti-Discrimination Act: Upholding Human Dignity
Duterte emphasized that the proposed Complete Anti-Discrimination Act transcends protecting a single group, it’s about upholding human dignity for all Filipinos. “This is a universal human obligation, and it is time we enshrined it into national law,” she declared. The act aims to outlaw unfair treatment based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, seeking to protect LGBTQIA+ individuals from the sting of workplace discrimination, lack of access to healthcare, and other forms of social exclusion. In her speech, Duterte called for even stronger implementation of existing protections, such as the Safe Spaces Act, and pushed for the establishment of LGBTQIA+ focal desks in law enforcement, halfway homes for abuse survivors, and helplines for psychosocial support.
Civil Union Act: Legalizing Partnerships for Same-Sex Couples
The Civil Union Act, another bill Duterte endorsed, seeks to amend the Family Code by legally recognizing civil unions for same-sex couples. This would grant couples critical rights in matters like property, inheritance, adoption, and social security. Duterte encouraged scholars to examine the socioeconomic impact of the Civil Union Act, explaining, “We must move beyond mere accommodation to genuine, tailored inclusion.” By supporting this act, Duterte affirms the need for laws that reflect the realities of diverse Filipino families and ensure equal protection under the law. Read more at Inquirer.net
Next Steps: From Legislation to Implementation
Duterte didn’t stop at legislation. She also proposed establishing a National LGBTQIA+ Commission to coordinate government policy and programs, especially those supporting vulnerable youth. While she sidestepped questions about the SOGIE Equality Bill, which some critics claim doesn’t have her full support, Duterte underlined her commitment to bills her legal team deems “ripe” and actionable. Her advocacy reflects a pragmatic approach, focusing on measures with solid legal footing and political momentum.
Doc’s Orders: What This Means for the Filipino LGBT+ Community
As we celebrate these developments, remember: progress is built by turning words into action. Advocacy, legal protections, and genuine inclusion go hand in hand. Stay informed, support your community, and don’t hesitate to speak your truth. This Pride, and beyond, let’s keep pushing for a Philippines where everyone can thrive with dignity and pride.
