Press Release - - - Aside from the proposed Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity or Expression (SOGIE) Equality Act or House Bill 4982, which the House of Representatives just approved on 3rd and final reading, there are four other bills concerning the LGBT (lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgenders) sector of our country.
These five bills are clear proof that human rights are on the agenda of the 17th Congress. We in Congress firmly believe LGBT rights are human rights.
The SOGIE Equality Bill is also clear indication that Congress values the work and legacy of then Akbayan Party-list Rep. Loretta Ann Rosales, former Chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights.
I see here an historic opportunity for the LGBT community to gather momentum. After the SOGIE Bill hurdles the House, the Senate is the next battleground, and after that, the bill goes to Malacanang. If the LGBT advocates have a good strategy, now may be the time for them to make that work.
We are aware the LGBT rights groups have other items on their legislative agenda. It is now time for them to rethink how they will push for those issues. Success in pushing for laws usually involves small victories over time. Incremental but progressive.
Property rights are important. Many LGBTs are in co-habitation situations. That involves property rights, which are also human rights protected by the 1987 Constitution. After SOGIE, property rights for the LGBT are the natural next step. After that, the major hurdle is civil unions.
Culture change happens gradually over time. The LGBT have been patient. They have endurance. (END)
