The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Protective Services Bureau (PSB) led a national policy dialogue to generate insights and recommendations in the crafting of a comprehensive anti-discrimination policy that will address the prejudice on sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression and sexual characteristics (SOGIE-SC).
Asst. Secretary Ada Colico of the DSWD’s Protective Programs said the activity dubbed “Diversity and Inclusion Committee (DIC) National Policy Dialogue” aimed to address the rampant discrimination based on SOGIE-SC and the hate being experienced by members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
“This committee was established with a clear and compelling mandate—to champion diversity, foster an inclusive culture, and promote equitable practices across government agencies,” Asst. Secretary Colico said in her opening message in the dialogue held last September 8 and 9 in Quezon City.
The participants that included representatives from various LGBTQIA+ organizations shared their insights on enhancing existing legal frameworks, particularly Executive Order No. 51, S. 2023, otherwise known as “Reinforcing the Diversity and Inclusion Program, Reconstituting the Inter-Agency Committee on Diversity and Inclusion, and Creating the Special Committee on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual
(LGBTQIA+) Affairs”.
“Our journey towards true diversity and inclusion is an ongoing one. It requires continuous effort, open minds, and a shared commitment from each and every one of us,” Asst. Secretary Colico pointed out.
The event also highlighted the work of representatives from various LGBTQIA+ movements, who presented their organizations’ initiatives, successful interventions, and relevant research outcomes to better address discrimination and ensure their equal access and participation in society.
The two-day activity is part of the efforts of the Philippine government to ensure that its programs, services, and policies will be more gender-responsive and gender-sensitive to the needs of vulnerable groups, including the LGBTQIA+ community. (AKDL)
