The LGBTQ+ community in the Philippines is continuously growing. These are the people who aren’t afraid to share their love with the world but are also the ones who know when to stand up and fight for their rights.
A survey in 2019 said that 73% of Filipinos accept homosexuality. And though it may be a larger chunk of the population, there’s still a sizable amount who doesn’t recognize nor accept the LGBTQ+ community.
Sadly, there are still a lot of members of the LGBTQ+ community who face injustices in the country. But even with all that, the community is still filled with love and support for one another.
Even government agencies like the DSWD and CHR shared their support for this thriving community. The Philippines has even been deemed one of the most gay-friendly countries in Asia.
If you’re looking for support, or know somebody who needs it, here are some communities you may want to join.
On suicide prevention and mental health
In 2013, a study by Eric Manalastas indicated that “sexual orientation appears to be significantly associated with suicide risk, with young Filipino gay and bisexual Filipino men at disproportionately higher risk for suicide ideation than heterosexual peers.” This has been further proved in a 2016 research conducted by the same researcher and showed that 39% of bisexual and gay Filipino men who previously reported suicide ideation had actually attempted to commit suicide.
This is part of the reason why a lot of LGBTQ+ community members really make it a point to look out for each other. If you’re having trouble mentally and are in need of support, there are multiple large communities that gather occasionally and share mental health insights and issues with one another.
One of which is Love Yourself’s Flourish Circle. This community aims “to provide a safe and affirming space where people can feel listened to, supported, and accepted. It provides its participants with a supportive environment that allows them to grow, shift to an empowering mindset, and improve their mental and emotional well being.”
If you’re having suicidal thoughts, please don’t be afraid to reach out. You may contact your close friends and family, or get help through these organizations with 24/7 suicide crisis hotlines: National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline, Hopeline PH, In Touch Community Services, or check here for more.
On access to information
Imagine all the questions a young member of the LGBTQ+ community might have. Is it okay to be gay? Are my feelings valid? Is this just a phase? How do I deal with my sexuality? And many, many more. It’s great that there are multiple communities in the Philippines that the youth and not-so-youth can join to gain more information on any questions they might have about their sexuality.
Remember, all your thoughts and questions are valid. Here are some communities you may want to join: Metro Manila Pride or TransMan Pilipinas.
On gay rights
The Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Expression (SOGIE) Equality bill, or the Anti-Discrimination Bill, aims to ensure that members of the LGBTQ+ community are not deprived of their rights because of their sexual orientation. Take note that it’s important to learn about this bill whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or not.
There are multiple communities you can join to learn more about the SOGIE Equality bill like Rainbow Rights Philippines, Lakanbini Advocates Pilipinas, or Galang Philippines.
On sexual health and HIV/AIDS
For members of the LGBTQ+ community who are sexually active and are worried about their sexual health, there are multiple resources online and support groups available for you. If you want more information on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Treatment, you may want to join these communities or visit their pages: Love Yourself, Bahaghari Center, or Safe Spaces PH.
Let your LGBTQ+ friends and family know you support them this Pride Month – and all the other months and days of every year. If you want to connect better with your LGBTQ+ friends and family, be active in reading resources that are readily available online or simply reach out to them. Happy Pride Month!
Download the GigaLife app now, register to exciting data promos, and share your love with your LGBTQ+ friends and family.
