“Right to Care Act: Empowering Love in Crisis”

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Empowering Partners: The Right to Care Act in Health Emergencies

Imagine this scenario: your partner faces a medical crisis, but you’re unable to make vital decisions because the law doesn’t recognize you as “family.” Heartbreaking, right? The proposed Right to Care Act aims to change that by allowing LGBTQ+ couples to designate each other as decision-makers through a special power of attorney during medical emergencies.

From Local Initiatives to National Advocacy

Quezon City took a pioneering step by introducing the Right to Care Card in June 2023. This initiative allows LGBTQ+ couples to make crucial healthcare decisions, including consent for treatments or DNR orders, on behalf of their partners. As of 2025, 468 couples have registered, and the card is accepted in public facilities like the Quezon City General Hospital. Following suit, San Juan City implemented a similar ordinance in June 2025, showcasing how local governments can lead in promoting equality even when national legislation lags behind.

Understanding the Bill: What It Offers

House Bill No. 2786, introduced by Akbayan Representative Percival Cendaña, enables individuals to name their common-law partners as “healthcare agents” on PhilHealth forms, bypassing the need for marriage. This designation gives partners the authority to make critical decisions regarding ventilators, intubation, and bedside care, while also granting access to medical records. Hospitals would be required to honor a national “right to care” card or face penalties, thereby reducing stigma in our predominantly Catholic society where marriage equality has yet to be achieved.

This legislation builds on the successes of Universal Health Care, ensuring that LGBTQ+ partners aren’t excluded during crises, similar to the tragic scenarios witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill, driven by advocates like ad executive Adrian de Guzman, and supported by Cendaña, aims to provide clarity for both medical professionals and patients.

Progressing Towards Full Equality

Janete Oviedo, chair of Quezon City’s Gender and Development (GAD) council, considers this initiative a “baby step” towards recognizing queer rights. As highlighted by VERA Files, the challenge remains with private hospitals, and the bill is pending committee review. When combined with the still-pending SOGIE Bill, this movement has the potential to become unstoppable.

Know Your Rights: If you’re in QC or San Juan, you can apply for the Right to Care Card through GAD offices. For those nationwide, supporting this bill is crucial, reach out to your representatives! This isn’t merely a policy change; it represents dignity, love, and justice. Let’s stand together, be heard, and ensure you know your rights. Let’s work towards enacting this as law.

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