Manila Mayor Isko Moreno on Thursday signed a historic ordinance that aims to protect members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex (LGBTQI) community in the city from discrimination and abuse.
Ordinance No. 8695, the Manila LGBTQI Protection Ordinance, aims to eliminate “any and all forms of discrimination against LGBTQI solely on the basis of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression” or SOGIE.
Meanwhile, a Gender Sensitivity and Development Council would also be created to oversee the implementation of the ordinance.
Building gender-neutral toilets “within 3 years” in establishments is also mandated, and failure to do so would be a ground for non-renewal of business permits.
Violators would face a range of penalties, from P1,000 to P5,000, with imprisonment of up to 1 year.
