Sara Duterte Champions LGBTQIA+ Rights with New Bills

# Sara Duterte Champions Civil Union and Anti-Discrimination Bills for LGBTQIA+ Filipinos

Inday Sara is bringing the fire this Pride season, folks! Just six months after her passionate call for the protection of our community’s spirit in her iconic [Pride Month 2025 message](https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/950246/sara-duterte-on-pride-month-2025-safeguard-lgbt-rights/story/), Vice President Sara Duterte is back with a strong message at the OVP’s Pride event in Pampanga. She announced that two groundbreaking bills are ready to move forward.

## Transforming Talk into Action: Bills to Combat Discrimination

Do you remember how Sara stood up for our “transformative courage” in the face of challenges at work, in healthcare, and with mental health? Now, she’s advocating for **Senate Bill No. 2766, the Complete Anti-Discrimination Act**, and **Senate Bill No. 449, the Civil Union Act**. “This is a universal human obligation,” she stated, connecting it to global human rights agreements that advocate dignity for everyone, whether you’re bakla, a trans sister, or anyone else who feels invisible.

And what about the Civil Union Act? It’s a significant step for same-sex couples, proposing changes to the Family Code that would grant rights related to property, inheritance, adoption, and social security benefits. Sara is encouraging scholars to explore its social and economic impacts, aiming for “genuine, tailored inclusion” that goes beyond mere acceptance. *Inday knows that love is love and deserves official recognition!*

## Envisioning a Brighter Future: Commission and Safe Spaces

Sara has a broader vision, and it includes advocating for a **National LGBTQIA+ Commission**. This commission would lead the way with evidence-based policies, youth empowerment, and national efforts that extend far beyond the current inter-agency committee of the DSWD. She’s also pushing for enhancements to the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313), suggesting LGBTQIA+ dedicated desks in police stations, temporary homes, emergency shelters, and helplines to support those dealing with harassment in the digital age.

During the press conference, Sara brushed aside the SOGIESC Equality Bill but stood strong in her choices, assuring that these bills have undergone rigorous legal scrutiny. In line with Pope Francis’s support for civil unions, she pledged the OVP’s backing to get these bills through Congress, even as the 19th Congress didn’t pass Padilla’s bill. A trans icon I spoke with said, “Sara recognizes our strength; now it’s time to legislate that protection!”

## Substance with Sparkle: A Call to Action

This isn’t just talk. From the lively streets of Manila to the pride events in the provinces, Sara’s efforts celebrate our resilience. Now, will Congress turn these into laws? The ball’s in your court, President! As 2025 winds down, let’s harness that Pride energy, laugh off the negativity, uplift those who are hurting, and push for a Philippines where LGBTQIA+ joy is the norm. *Artie suggests keeping a close eye on these bills, like you would your next outfit. Go, Inday Sara!*

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