A House lawmaker is urging local government units to pass ordinances that aim to protect LGBTQ individuals from discrimination. Rep. Angelica Natasha Co of BHW Partylist highlighted the importance of utilizing existing laws such as the Safe Spaces Act, Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children Act, Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act, and Anti-Human Trafficking Act to safeguard the welfare of LGBTQ members while awaiting the passage of the SOGIE bill. Co emphasized the need for cities and towns to enact ordinances that provide additional protections for the LGBTQ community and allocate more funding for LGBTQ welfare programs. Despite efforts from lawmakers and civil society organizations, the SOGIE bill has faced delays in Congress for over two decades. Supporters of the bill, like Sen. Risa Hontiveros, have clarified that its provisions do not legalize same-sex marriage or give special privileges to LGBTQ+ individuals.
