With Thailand finally recognizing same-sex marriage, we can’t help but wonder what’s next for its ASEAN sister, the Philippines.
Before colonization, Filipinos respected people who didn’t identify strictly as men or women. These individuals, known as babaylan, were seen as spiritually gifted—acting as healers and intermediaries between the gods and the people. After colonization, cultural views brought about by religion fostered indifference and hatred towards the marginalized community. The LGBTQ+ community in the Philippines has long faced challenges, including inequality. Meanwhile, in another Southeast Asian country, Thailand responded to the struggles of its LGBTQ+ citizens by passing a landmark bill legalizing same-sex marriage as it entered the new year.
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Journey Toward Equality
There are 48 countries in the whole continent of Asia and only three of them legalize same-sex marriage, Nepal, Taiwan, and Thailand. Moreover, in the 11 Southeast Asian countries, only Thailand heard the plea for marriage equality.
A Transwoman holding a Pride flag in Thailand / Photo by Yumi Yasa via Pexels
There was a time when Thailand’s Ministry of Health considered homosexuality as a mental illness. This then led to the ridicule and instillation of false negative narratives that prevented queer people to exist freely. Thankfully, in 2002, the Ministry of Health announced that homosexuality would no longer be regarded as a mental illness or disorder.
One reason why the LGBTQ+ community in the country is so visible is because of how they are portrayed in the media. From being a mere side character for comedic relief to being portrayed as people with actual depth and character—the shift enabled more people to see that the marginalized community is more than their SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression). A shift from mere tolerance to outright acceptance was felt as media portrayals of queer love grew in popularity.
Mew Suppasit and Tul Pakorn, Thai actors who recently got engaged / Photo via Instagram @mewsuppasit
Queer activists who led conversations and dialogues during the recent political turmoil further reinforced visibility and acceptance for the community. Moreover, queer leaders who were in support of political reform including curbing the powers of the monarchy were arrested—the spotlight was once again on the community, as they were seen fighting for the masses and other marginalized sections of society.
A queer Thai celebrating Pride / Photo by haimu zhao via Pexels
The chains of inequality may have been broken, however it does not mean that it was not long. Thailand has always been known for being a haven for queer people, however, it is because of the community of queer people within the country. The ratification of the reformed definition of marriage in the Thai Civil Code signifies a win for equality, love, and for the community.
In Local Context
As ASEAN sisters, we couldn’t help but compare the status of LGBTQ+ acceptance and visibility in the Philippines and Thailand. The latter recognized the plight of the marginalized sector and gave them equal rights. On the other hand, the former is still debating whether the SOGIE Bill should be passed into law.
It has been 20 years since the first version of a bill that protects the rights of the LGBTQ+ community was filed in Congress. In comparison, Republic Act 8485, or the Animal Welfare Act of 1998 has been a law for more than 25 years. It is saddening to realize that animals have more rights than the queer community in the Philippines.
The attendees of different Pride Marches around the Philippines / Photo via Instagram @tfprideph
Queer Filipinos have always been an integral part of history. From Tamblot, a non-binary babaylan who led a revolution against the Spaniards in Bohol, to the comfort gays during the Japanese colonization who bravely faced abuse. To more current representation such as queer artists being heavily visible in the media and being an inspiration to other queer kids. Queer culture has always been alive and thriving even if there are no laws to protect them.
Senator Risa Hontiveros in the 2014 Pride March / Photo via Facebook
Being in a predominantly Catholic country, the disdain for homosexuality is not surprising. However, it is written in Article II, Section 6 of the 1987 Constitution that the separation of Church and State shall be inviolable. We, especially our lawmakers, should always be reminded that laws should serve the people—not exclude them.
Banner photo by Anna Shvets via Pexels.
