Quezon City first LGU in PH to enact Gender-Inclusive Health Ordinance

Metro Manila, Philippines - A Gender-Inclusive Health Ordinance has been enacted in Quezon City, the first local government in the country to do so.

Councilors Bernard Herrera and Dorothy Delarmente introduced the ordinance, which seeks to provide healthcare services to everyone, regardless of gender identity or expression.

The ordinance laid out a framework for “gender-affirming primary care, mental health support, and specialized medical services” in the city’s health facilities.

Under the legislation, conversion therapy and suppression of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics are prohibited.

Gender-affirming care will also be meshed into existing programs.

“Every citizen deserves care that recognizes and respects who they are. With this legislation, we are ensuring that no one is left behind in our goal of achieving health equity,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said on Sunday, July 13, noting the “groundbreaking ordinance reaffirms” the city’s commitment to an inclusive healthcare system.

“For far too long, members of the LGBTQIA+ community have faced discrimination and limited access to essential health services. This ordinance is a concrete step in addressing that injustice,” she said.

Key health institutions such as the Quezon City Health Department, Quezon City General Hospital, Novaliches District Hospital, and Rosario Maclang Bautista General Hospital will spearhead in providing gender-inclusive medical services.

A technical working sub-committee will be established to ensure the measure’s implementation. The implementing rules and regulations will be formulated within 60 days through consultations.