The Right to Care Act: Transforming Healthcare Rights for LGBTQ+ Filipinos
Imagine finding yourself in a hospital, needing urgent decisions about your health, yet your partner, who knows you best, is not allowed to step in because their relationship with you isn’t legally recognized. This is a stark reality for many LGBTQ+ couples in the Philippines. However, change is on the horizon with the Right to Care Act, a groundbreaking initiative that aims to empower LGBTQ+ partners by granting them the authority to make vital healthcare decisions.
Understanding the Right to Care Act
Introduced by Akbayan Representative Percival Cendaña through House Bill No. 2786 in late 2024, this legislation seeks to establish a national policy allowing individuals to appoint their partners, regardless of marital status or SOGIE, as their healthcare proxies. This means they can make medical decisions, consent to treatments, and access medical records without the need for traditional “legal” relatives. This law addresses the stigma and delays often encountered in emergency situations. As Cendaña articulates, it’s about “life-saving common sense” so that hospitals aren’t forced to wait for distant family members to arrive.Inquirer.net
Local Successes Spark National Optimism
Quezon City pioneered this movement in June 2023 with the introduction of the Right to Care Card, made available through a Special Power of Attorney (SPA). Initially embraced by over 1,200 couples, with 468 registrations between 2023 and 2025, the demand shows its importance. All hospitals in Quezon City must honor this card, facing penalties if they don’t. Following suit, San Juan City enacted Ordinance No. 16 in June 2025, becoming the second local government unit to formalize such rights for LGBTQ+ partners.Quezon City Gov Manila Bulletin
Empowering Couples: Why It Matters
In a predominantly Catholic country where marriage equality is yet to be achieved and the SOGIE Bill remains stalled, stories like those of Ash Musnit and Leslie Ampo-an, a couple of 18 years, highlight the discrimination faced by many. The Right to Care Card validates these relationships, offering low-income couples legal rights without the hefty cost of lawyers. Should the Act pass, PhilHealth would even include proxies on ID cards. While it’s a small step towards equality, it represents a substantial leap for health justice.Interaksyon
The Path Forward
Currently under committee review, this bill faces less resistance compared to the SOGIE Bill, as Cendaña contends that denying care is simply inhumane. LGBTQ+ couples deserve recognition as “mahal sa buhay” under the law. It’s time to take action, reach out to your representatives and share your stories. This movement goes beyond policy; it’s about pride and advocacy. Stand firm, understand your rights, and let your voice be heard!Eco-Business
(Word count: 412. Published November 24, 2025)
