Quezon City’s LGBTQ+ Healthcare Pilot Program: A Model for National Implementation
Quezon City is once again leading the charge for equality with its innovative LGBTQ+ healthcare initiatives, setting a powerful example for the entire Philippines. With the launch of the Right to Care Card and the pioneering QC STARS program, the city is not only addressing healthcare gaps for LGBTQ+ Filipinos but also empowering them to make crucial medical decisions and access gender-affirming care. If you’re wondering how these programs work, and why the rest of the country should take notes, let’s break it down, legal eagle style.
Right to Care Card: Empowering LGBTQ+ Couples in Healthcare
Quezon City’s Right to Care Card allows LGBTQ+ couples to make vital medical decisions for each other, a right historically reserved for married heterosexual couples. Through a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA), cardholders can choose healthcare providers, manage hospital admissions and discharges, access medical records, and approve or deny treatments on behalf of their partners. The card comes with a QR code that links to a digital copy of the SPA for easy, secure validation in hospitals across the city. As of now, the program is active in key city hospitals and is poised for wider adoption in public and private facilities.
Transgender-Focused Initiative: QC STARS
Complementing the Right to Care Card, the city also launched the QC Strategic Trans* Health Access to Resources and Services (STARS) program. This initiative is a direct response to the unique health needs of transgender Filipinos, offering free hormone counseling, assessment, and management. QC STARS also promises the rollout of a Gender-affirmation Code of Conduct and a trans-competent health provider network, ensuring that trans and gender-diverse people receive respectful, affirming, and appropriate care.
How to Access These Programs?
Interested couples can register for the Right to Care Card by attending an orientation at the QC Gender and Development (GAD) Office, filling out the required forms, and submitting a notarized SPA. Once validated by the city’s legal team, they’ll receive their cards and detailed information on their new rights and responsibilities. For QC STARS, transgender residents can connect through participating clinics or community partners.
Know Your Rights: Why This Program Matters
For too long, LGBTQ+ Filipinos have been denied the right to make critical healthcare decisions for their partners, often facing heartbreaking obstacles during emergencies. By issuing legal recognition to life partners, regardless of marital status or gender, Quezon City is affirming that everyone deserves dignity and agency in healthcare settings. These programs don’t just fill legal gaps; they support a culture of respect, equality, and inclusion.
Pathway to National Implementation
With Quezon City’s programs gaining national and international attention, advocates are calling for these models to be replicated nationwide. Early reporting suggests that these policies could serve as a litmus test for broader adoption, especially as more cities witness their positive impact on LGBTQ+ wellbeing. Mayor Joy Belmonte and community partners hope this inspires lawmakers and local officials to prioritize LGBTQ+ health rights across the archipelago.
“We stand stronger when we can uphold one another’s rights.”
, Abi Aquino, Chief Creative Officer, MullenLowe TREYNA
Get Involved!
Quezon City’s approach shows what’s possible when local governments, advocates, and communities work together for LGBTQ+ equality. If you think your city should follow Quezon City’s lead, reach out to local officials, join LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, or attend upcoming Pride events. Knowledge is power, be proud, speak up, and let’s push for healthcare equity nationwide!
