THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is investigating reports of a discriminatory policy allegedly enforced against suspected lesbian and gay residents in a barangay in Maguindanao del Sur.
The CHR expressed concern over the reported implementation of “Operation Supak” in Barangay Layog, Pagalungan, which was said to target members of the LGBTQIA community.
Citing local media reports, the CHR said barangay officials allegedly visited the homes of individuals believed to be lesbian or gay.
“They were reportedly compelled to report to the barangay hall. Same-sex adult couples living together were forcibly separated. A barangay official said the couples are violating the law and the teachings of Islam,” the CHR said.
The commission stressed that “actions of this nature violate the dignity and rights of LGBTQIA people,” adding that the alleged acts unlawfully single out individuals based on perceived sexual orientation.
According to the CHR, members of the LGBTQIA community were subjected to harassment and discrimination, infringing on their rights to privacy and security. It added that the actions, if confirmed, may violate guarantees under the Constitution and international human rights standards, including equal protection, non-discrimination, privacy, and freedom from arbitrary interference.
While acknowledging the importance of religious freedom, the CHR said it cannot be used to justify actions by government officials, particularly when public funds and facilities are used to target individuals on the basis of perceived sexual orientation.
“Domestically, the targeting of perceived lesbian and gay couples has no legal basis. There is no Philippine law that prohibits women from living with women, or men from living with men,” the CHR said.
The CHR said the investigation will be conducted in coordination with the Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission. It also urged the Presidential Special Committee on LGBTQIA+ Affairs to strengthen inter-agency coordination to ensure protection and support for LGBTQIA persons.
