Sara Duterte Calls for Stronger LGBT Rights

What happens when hope meets resilience? For the Filipino queer community, Vice President Sara Duterte’s bold call on September 18, 2025, to champion stronger LGBT rights felt like the page turning on a story long yearning for a happy ending. Duterte’s words weren’t just political slogans, they pulsed with recognition and empathy for the everyday courage of bakla, trans, and queer Filipinos who move through life’s uncertainties with dazzling grit.

National stage, personal stakes

During an impassioned address hosted by the Office of the Vice President, Duterte urged lawmakers to pass two landmark bills: the Complete Anti-Discrimination Act and the Civil Union Act. Both measures aim to extend crucial protections and recognize the diversity of Filipino lives and loves. “This is a universal human obligation, and it is time we enshrine it into national law,” Duterte declared, her voice both confident and compassionate, echoing years of silent prayers from those denied legal recognition.
For many, her words hit home: “When we safeguard LGBT rights, we reinforce the foundations upon which all our freedoms rest.” For decades, the absence of protective laws meant that LGBT youth, workers, and elders alike carried silent burdens, discrimination at work, the invisible walls around healthcare, and persistent stigma that seeps into mental health. Duterte honored this truth, vowing to turn pain into policy and courage into collective action. Read the full details and her specific legislative push in this Inquirer News article.

From inspiration to action

Duterte also unveiled a visionary plan: the creation of a dedicated National LGBTQIA+ Commission. Imagined as a “thorough lead agency,” this commission would collaborate across government, shape policies grounded in truth, and roll out empowerment programs, especially for queer youth who often find themselves at the crossroads of dreams and discrimination.
Her call for a more inclusive Philippines sang in harmony with her earlier Pride Month message: “Let us build together a Philippines where diversity is recognized not as incidental but as essential to our national character. Where human dignity needs no justification. Where the courage to face adversity is honored as the highest expression of Filipino resilience.” Hear her full remarks as reported in GMA News.

“Tao rin tayo, may pangarap din tayo”

For Ana, a transgender nurse in Quezon City, Duterte’s speech was both a balm and a rallying cry. “Nakakaiyak. Akala namin, walang may pakialam. Kapag may lider kang nagsasalita ng ganyan, parang may ilaw ka ulit sa dilim,” she shared, her voice trembling but strong.

While the Vice President didn’t directly support same-sex marriage, clarifying she seeks legal protections for LGBT partnerships and families, the message was undeniable: the fight for equality is no longer a lonely road (see this PNA clarification).

The journey is far from over, but for every rainbow flag raised and every voice speaking truth to power, hope is blossoming in our communities. “Ang Pride, hindi lang para sa LGBT. Lahat tayo, kasama,” Duterte said. Ganun din tayo dito sa BayotHub, tuloy ang laban, tuloy ang kwento.

What is your story of pride and hope? Share it with us in the comments below, and let’s shine together.