MANILA, (PIA) — Prominent transgender rights activist Ice Seguerra expressed optimism for the growing acceptance and support for the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines, while also calling for continued efforts to ensure their safety and equal treatment.
Seguerra, who came out publicly in the early 2000s, reflected on the significant progress made over the years during the 1st Rainbow Care Caravan, a Pride Month multi-sectoral event led by the Philippine Information Agency-National Capital Region in partnership with the Intramuros Administration, Metro Manila Center for Health Development, Manila City Government led by Mayor Honey Lacuna, Department of Public Works and Highways-NCR, Lalamove Philippines, and Globe Telecom.
“It feels so good that we are finally recognized as a community. We are recognized for the valuable contributions we can make to society,” Seguerra said, noting that in the past, local government units did not organize Pride celebrations.
The artist praised the government’s recent moves to support the LGBTQIA+ community, including efforts by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to provide inclusive healthcare coverage. However, Seguerra emphasized that legal protections are still lacking.
“For the longest time until now there is still no law that protects us, but do we really need a law to respect those of us who are different?” Seguerra questioned.
“I hope we can treat each other with kindness and respect, regardless of our beliefs,” he added.
Seguerra acknowledged that many in the LGBTQIA+ community still face discrimination and abuse, though the artist’s own celebrity status has shielded him from some of the harsher realities.
“I feel the discrimination, yes, but I’m sure my fellow community members know all too well the abuse they face just for being who they are and how they dress,” Seguerra said. “We need safe spaces where we can be free to be ourselves.”
The celebrity LGBTQIA+ advocate urged allies to be more than just passive supporters, calling on them to actively embrace and defend the community.
Seguerra emphasized the importance of assertiveness over defensiveness in promoting understanding.
“If we do good, if they see that we are not to be feared, that will open the doors to deeper connections and understanding,” he said. “It’s an uphill battle, but we are gaining more and more support, little by little.”
Seguerra expressed hope that one day the LGBTQIA+ community will no longer need to be identified as such, but simply as fellow human beings deserving of respect and equal rights. (PIA-NCR)
