Senate President Escudero Optimistic About Anti-Discrimination Bill's Passage Over SOGIESC Act

Senate President Francis 'Chiz' Escudero has expressed confidence that the anti-discrimination bill has a higher likelihood of passing in the Philippine Senate compared to the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, or Expression, or Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC) Equality Act. This assertion comes amid ongoing debates and calls for legislative action to protect the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, a staunch advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, has been vocal in urging the Senate to pass the SOGIESC bill, which remains pending on second reading. Hontiveros highlighted that 19 senators have signed the committee report on the bill, indicating significant bipartisan support.

Despite this support, Escudero pointed out that the SOGIESC bill faces considerable opposition and will continue to do so unless its proponents agree to certain amendments. 'Unless the proponents of the SOGIE bill accede to some amendments, it will continue to face rough sailing in the Senate,' he stated.

In contrast, Escudero believes that the anti-discrimination bill has a better chance of being approved this year. He emphasized the need for a more inclusive approach to legislation that addresses discrimination in various forms, beyond just those based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

The passage of the anti-discrimination bill or the SOGIESC Equality Act has significant implications for the rights and protections of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines. The outcome of these legislative efforts will impact the daily lives of individuals and shape the country's social and political fabric.

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Manila has also called for the passage of a law against discrimination targeting the LGBTQIA+ community. The UNFPA's push aligns with the broader global movement to ensure equality and protections for individuals regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Hontiveros remains hopeful that the new Senate leadership will act on the SOGIESC bill, especially during LGBTQ+ Awareness Month. 'Nineteen (19) of my colleagues signed the committee report on the SOGIESC Equality Bill. That should speak to its acceptability across the aisle,' she said. She added, 'I hope the new leadership of the Senate will stand up for our LGBTQIA+ community this month of celebration and recognition and also in their daily lives as people.'

The SOGIESC Equality Bill, which aims to protect the LGBTQIA+ community from discrimination, has faced opposition from various religious groups and sectors. The bill has been referred to the Committee on Rules for further study, where it remains pending.

The Senate committee on social justice, welfare, and rural development, chaired by Senator Imee Marcos, held a hearing on May 8 to discuss several comprehensive anti-discrimination bills proposed by other senators as alternatives to the SOGIESC bill.

The ongoing debate will significantly impact the protection and rights of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines. The contrasting views between Escudero and Hontiveros highlight the complexities and challenges in achieving consensus on this critical issue.

Key Takeaways

• Senate President Chiz Escudero believes the anti-discrimination bill has a better chance of passing than the SOGIESC Equality Act.
• 19 senators have signed the committee report on the SOGIESC bill, indicating bipartisan support.
• Escudero suggests the SOGIESC bill faces opposition and needs amendments to pass.
• The UNFPA in Manila calls for a law against discrimination targeting the LGBTQIA+ community.
• The outcome of these legislative efforts will impact the daily lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals in the Philippines.