Quezon City enacts gender-inclusive health ordinance

Quezon City has become the first local government unit in the Philippines to enact a gender-inclusive health ordinance, aiming to provide accessible and respectful healthcare services for all regardless of gender identity or expression.

The ordinance requires public health facilities to offer gender-affirming consultations, counseling, mental health support tailored to gender-diverse and transgender individuals, and medical guidance referrals.

Mayor Joy Belmonte emphasized that the measure addresses long-standing discrimination faced by LGBTQIA+ community members in accessing healthcare services and mandates prohibition of conversion therapy and SOGIESC suppression practices.

The ordinance integrates gender-affirming care into existing public health programs such as HIV/AIDS prevention, disability services, and crisis support provided through the Quezon City Protection Center.

A technical working subcommittee led by QC Pride Council will be formed to ensure effective implementation in coordination with the QC Gender and Development Council and District Pride Councils. The city's Health Department, General Hospital, Novaliches District Hospital, and Rosario Maclang Bautista General Hospital will also lead initiatives for inclusive healthcare services.

The implementing rules and regulations of the ordinance will be developed over the next 60 days with input from LGBTQ+ groups, civil society organizations, and medical professionals.