What Every Family Should Know About Quezon City’s New Inclusive Health Policy
The Gender Inclusive Health Ordinance aims to provide accessible, respectful, and affirming healthcare services for all, regardless of gender identity or expression
There’s more good news for the LGBTQ+ community in Quezon City. The Quezon City Local Government announced that it has passed the Gender Inclusive Health Ordinance, which will provide healthcare services for all, regardless of gender identity or expression.
The ordinance was made possible by Councilors Bernard Herrera and Dorothy Delarmente, who created a framework that aims to deliver gender-affirming primary care, mental healthMental HealthA person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being, which affects how children and parents think, feel, and cope. Open conversations, regular routines, and timely help from professionals make it easier for support, and specialized medical services through the city’s public health system.
What is the Gender Inclusive Health Ordinance?
“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,” Belmonte said.
Under the Gender Inclusive Health Ordinance, all public health services in QC will offer:
- Gender-affirming consultations and counseling
- Medical guidance and referrals to specialized services
- Mental health support tailored to gender-diverse and transgender individuals
Most important under the new ordinance is that it will prohibit all forms of conversion therapy and SOGIESC (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics) suppression practices, as they are harmful and unlawful in the city.
In addition, it ensures that gender-affirming care will be integrated into various projects, including HIV/AIDS prevention, disability services, and crisis support through the Quezon City Protection Center.
To ensure the proper implementation of the ordinance, a sub-technical committee has been formed with the assistance of the QC Pride Council, QC Gender and Development Council, and District Pride Councils, as well as other key institutions and hospitals.
A Step Forward For All Communities
The new Gender Inclusive Health Ordinance is the latest move of Quezon City in its mission to give respect and rights to all its citizens, especially the LGBTQ+ community. In 2023, the QC government released the Right to Care Card, which gave same-sex partners rights on medical decisions.
The QC LGU has also been one of the proponents of various activities for the LGBTQ+ community, having hosted past Pride events in parts of the city.
The ordinance is also something families can look at and discuss to share with members who are part of the LGBTQ+ community, empowering them on proper healthcare.
More about the LGBTQ+ community
Jon-jon Rufino: A Father’s Story
I Grew Up With A Gay Dad and I Couldn’t Be Prouder
This Couple Shares How Families Can Be Better Allies to the LGBTQ+ Community
