CWGE Chairperson and Bataan 1st District Rep. Geraldine Roman
TO show multisectoral and intersectional support for equality and non-discrimination, labor rights unions, women’s rights groups, and allied companies, together with PANTAY joined the House Committee on Women and Gender Equality (CWGE) on Tuesday, January 30, at the House of Representatives to renew calls for the passage of the Equality Bill.
House Bill 4982, now simply called the “Equality Bill” by advocates, seeks to protect all Filipinos from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression (SOGIE).
House CWGE Chairperson and Bataan 1st District Rep. Geraldine Roman, who is among the principal authors of the bill, welcomed the efforts of these sectors.
“The overflowing support from these allied groups is key to heightening awareness that gender-related rights benefit everyone. And, the recognition of these rights is a requisite to achieving a Philippine society that treats all of its citizens with dignity and respect,” the Congresswoman commented.
Supported by the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines under the EquAllies (Equality Allies) Project, PANTAY was able to convene women’s rights organizations, labor unions, and companies for a series of media events showcasing their support for the Equality Bill, explaining how the bill directly benefits their sectors.
“Having workers and women as equality allies is pivotal to the struggle for gender equality. This is a reminder that equality is for all — that everyone plays a part in fighting for a just and equal society where everyone can live without fear and discrimination,” PANTAY’s Executive Director Rye Manuzon said.
Labor groups asserted that the passage of the Equality Bill is directly in line with the Senate’s concurrence to ratify the International Labor Organization Convention 190, addressing gender-based harassment in the world of work.
Women’s rights organizations emphasize as well that they also experience gender-based discrimination and violence, which the SOGIE Equality Bill can address.
“Collective effort is vital to achieving a collective dream where diversity, equality, inclusion, and human rights are championed locally and globally in all facets of life,” the Canadian Embassy Head of Political and Public Affairs Colin Townson remarked.
Townson commended the dedication of the workers’ unions, women’s rights organizations, and allied companies especially during their dialogues with legislators.
He affirms the Embassy of Canada’s unwavering support for local initiatives that advocate for gender equality.Other Equality Champions from the House CWGE, such as Rep. Ma. Rene Ann Lourdes Matibag, Rep. Bai Dimple I. Mastura, Rep. Arlene D. Brosas, and Rep. France Castro, among others, also graced the event with their solidarity.
