As part of the Gender and Development (GAD) Program of the Regional Training Center – Korea-Philippines Vocational Training Center in Davao, an orientation was conducted on March 22, 2023, to raise awareness among trainees about Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression (SOGIE) and HIV and AIDS Policy (RA 11166). The orientation highlighted the fast-growing HIV epidemic in the Philippines and the government’s policies and programs to address it, including the HIV and AIDS Policy Act and the SOGIE Equality Bill.
Mr. Philip M. Tagab of TLF Share Collective Inc. discussed the HIV and AIDS Policy Act, which provides better access to HIV testing, treatment, and care services, promotes HIV education and awareness, and eliminates discrimination against people living with HIV. The Act includes provisions for free and confidential HIV testing for all individuals and requires the government to provide access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all people living with HIV, regardless of their ability to pay.
On the other hand, Regie M. Manginsay of Love Yourself Foundation Inc. in partnership with the Reproductive Health and Wellness Center of City Health Office of Davao discussed the SOGIE Equality Bill. Regie shared that SOGIE is a proposed law that seeks to protect the rights of people based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. The bill aims to promote equality and eliminate discrimination based on SOGIE in employment, education, health care, and other sectors. It also seeks to prohibit hate crimes and harassment against people based on their SOGIE.
In promoting awareness and understanding of SOGIE, HIV and AIDS issues, organizations and advocacy groups in the Philippines have been working together. In line with the discussions, the Reproductive Health and Wellness Center of City Health Office of Davao conducted a Free HIV testing for those interested, providing free and confidential HIV testing and counseling services to key populations at higher risk of acquiring HIV.
The trainees and employees of RTC-KPVTC, Davao expressed that these discussions help promote greater understanding and acceptance of individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, and others). By providing a platform to discuss issues related to SOGIE, people can learn more about the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and the challenges they face, including discrimination, stigma, and violence.