Rainbow Flag waves in the Asia's Latin City

written by Denssel Tolentino and Brixson Julian

Mujer LGBT Organization Inc. prides itself for being one of the prime movers in pushing for the Anti-Discrimination Ordinance (ADO) in Zamboanga City, after having been pending for two long years.

This feat adds only to the list of the accomplished causes of Mujer in ending discrimination and advocating for equal rights in the city. Mujer sees the signing of the ordinance as progress in the readiness of the city to embrace change, and the people's acceptance to persons of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity and expression (SOGIE).

On October 14, Zamboanga City Mayor Beng Climaco, together with Vice Mayor, Hon. Mayor Meng Agan, signed the Comprehensive ADO. Prior to its approval, it has gone through a series of stringent oral arguments and interpellations as a result of clashing beliefs and dissenting opinions that are rooted form radical belief, not only from the members of the council, but the general populace.

Mujer believes for instance that contrary to what most people argue, the ADO specifically the provisions that highlight the rights of persons of diverse SOGIE, do not hamper on spiritual freedom of those who disagree as it only amplifies the values of the equality- which is human dignity in the form of compassion, respect, and reverence to all persons.

For Mujer, this success is a testament that persistence in the face of adversity can spark change. Together with other local organizations, Mujer is immensely grateful to those who supported the passage of the ADO, especially to Hon. Lilibeth Macrohon Nuño, who authored the said ordinance.

"It is a long and arduous road ahead to see its consistent implementation, but it would not hurt to look back and appreciate the trail we once thought we could not blaze. Indeed, there is hope for our motherland!," Mujer expressed.