What Ice and Liza Diño Seguerra Want the LGBTQIA+ Community and Parents to Know

As LGBTQIA+ parents, Ice and Liza Diño Seguerra get candid about their experiences and share what they wish to impart to the community.

Being parents in today’s society can be tough—even more so as members of the LGBTQIA+ community. And while some progress has been made, there’s still so much to be done. Ice and Liza Diño Seguerra know this well as parents to their daughter Amara, who is currently in the U.S.

“Yes, you call us a family. But the Philippines doesn’t actually recognize us as a family, which is very unfortunate,” Ice explained. “Ang hirap. Of course, we have a child, [but] hindi siya recognized as my child. I’m just a guardian despite the fact that we’ve been together and I’ve helped raise her.”

“I mean, a lot of improvements have been made. But there’s still a lot more to do. It’s so simple to let [people] live [their lives peacefully.] Unfortunately, society doesn’t allow us to do that.”

In an intimate discussion with Modern Parenting, Ice and Liza share what it’s like being LGBTQIA+ parents in the Philippines and what they want both parents and the community as a whole to know.

Lessons on parenting

When asked what message he can impart to LGBTQIA+ parents, Ice pointed out that every child is different. “You can’t have a cookie-cutter way of disciplining your child, of treating your child. So you really have to learn who your kid is. Know the ins and outs. Know their behavior [and] personality to tailor-fit kung papaano mo sila papalakihin,” he advised.

“As an LGBTQIA+ couple, despite the challenges that we face, it’s important for us to step up. In the sense that we have to make sure that the government sees us,” he continued. “These kinds of relationships exist.”

“We have to assert because we have rights. We have rights—the right to love, live, and have a family. It’s a human right.”

On marriage and coming out

Committing yourselves as a couple is a two-way street, where both you and your partner are supposed to give and take. For Liza, communication is essential when you make that lasting vow. “True understanding and active listening are equally important. My husband Ice and I have built our relationship on complete transparency. We share everything with each other, fostering a deep sense of trust.”

“And through this trust, we know that no matter what challenges come our way, we will face them together as a team,” she added.

On the other hand, when it comes to children of LGBTQIA+ parents, Ice believes it’s all about empowering and raising them well. “If you raise your kid to be empowered, to be courageous and strong, he, she, or them can withstand all of these challenges. So more than hinder their expression of who they are, support and give as much love, understanding, empowerment and care.”

Ice cited Amara’s case on how she has been able to handle bullies regarding her parents’ situation. “Kaya nila harapin ang lahat ng problema if alam nila na nandiyan kayo,” he declared. “At the end of the day, we just want our kids to be happy, to live a happy life, and give them that.”

As for couples in the community, Ice reminded it’s always their decision if they are ready to come out. “We cannot force people to be out if they’re not ready yet. But I hope that hearing stories like ours will actually inspire you to live your life freely because life is short, man. You’ll never know what’s going to happen tomorrow.”

Photos by Kim Angela Santos

More stories from LGBTQIA+ parents and kids

How K Brosas Helped Her Daughter Crystal Come Out to the Public

How Sheryn Regis Accepted Her Daughter Sweety’s Sexual Preference

This Couple Shares How Families Can Be Better Allies to the LGBTQ+ Community