Iloilo an LGBT-friendly city – mayor

MAYOR Jose Espinosa III formally declared Iloilo City an LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender)-friendly city.

Espinosa said he is proposing a council or an office that will create programs and activities for the LGBT sector. Among the activities in his mind is the “pride parade.”

He is eyeing an executive assistant for LGBT affairs.

“Here in Iloilo, we don’t frown upon as to what these people choose. We want to give them self-respect. Indi naton gusto nga kun mag-intra sila sa pageant gina-kadlawan sila,” he said.

One of the activities during the recently concluded 81st Iloilo City Charter Day is the Miss LGBT Ambassaddress of Iloilo City 2018. The city also hosted LGBT volleyball and basketball games.

Espinosa said the city government wants to honor and give importance to all sectors of the society.

“In Iloilo, we welcome everyone. Nobody is left behind,” he said.

The mayor recognized that the lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgenders have received recognition in different industries, particularly in the art and fashion, theaters, and the media, among others.

Last June 2018, the Iloilo City Council unanimously approved the “Anti-Discrimination” ordinance that punishes persons who discriminate based on sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, descent, ethnic origin, and religious beliefs.

It carries a punishment of admonition and a penalty of P1,000 for the first offense; P2,000 for the second offense and imprisonment of not more than 10 days at the discretion of the court; and P3,000 and 15 days imprisonment for the third offense.

The ordinance authored by Councilor Liezl Joy Zulueta-Salar mandates the creation of the anti-discrimination mediation and conciliation board with the mayor as chairperson. It will initiate the filing of cases.

SOURCE: The Daily Guardian

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