For One Day One Struggle 2016, PILIPINA Legal Resources Centre (PLRC) is taking forward advocacy for policy reform that ensures non-discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in the Philippines. This marks the 3rd year that PLRC has taken up the issue through the ODOS campaign.
Through One Day One Struggle in 2011, PLRC began advocating for the inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) in the Davao City Anti-Discrimination Ordinance–a success that was realized in 2012. The Ordinance was the first of its’ kind in the Philippines, and provides protection from discrimination against women, ethnic minorities and people living with disabilities as well.
Recognizing that the passage of the law is the first step, in 2015, PLRC advocated for strengthening the Implementation Rules & Regulations (IRR) of the Anti-Discrimination Ordinance within Davao City. For ODOS 2015, PLRC organized an expert consultation with LGBT community members, lawyers, and municipal government officials to develop the framework for the IRR. The success of the workshop lead PLRC to be invited to lead a series of trainings for municipal government and public institutions on the agreed recommendations for the IRR.
PLRC’s advocacy at the national level has also translated to the international sphere, where along with many groups worldwide, PLRC advocated for the adoption of the UN Resolution for an Independent Expert on SOGI during the 32nd Session of the Human Rights Council in June 2016.
For ODOS this year, in collaboration with CSBR and the Davao City Integrated Gender & Development Division, PLRC is hosting two dialogues with local legislators and policy makers, with the goal of developing the final text for the Implementaiton Rules & Regulations of the Anti-Discrimination Ordinance as well as developing a city-wide action plan for more outreach activities for LGBT rights.
The first discussion takes place 9 November 2016, from 10am-12pm, at University Engagement & Advocacy, Ateneo de Davao University, Jacinto Campus, Davao City.
The second discussion takes place 10 November 2016, from 10am-11pm at Sangguniang Panglungsod ng Dabaw, San Pedro Street, Davao City
Panelists: Lorna Mandin (for updates), Dr EJ Sabado, Jhoanna Cruz, Atty. Romeo T. Caberde, Jr. (to be confirmed)
Legislators: Hon. Pilar Caneda Braga, Hon. Myrna Dalodo Ortiz, Hon. Avegayle Dalodo-Ortiz Omalza, a representative of Hon. Halila Sudagar
Facilitator: Kaye Solamo Antonio/PILIPINA Legal Resources Center
Check back for updates and results on PLRC’s ODOD 2016 action soon.