(Photo Courtesy)
TACLOBAN CITY – The provincial government of Biliran has expressed its desire to advance the fundamental rights of same-sex couples in the province, particularly in securing equal access to medical and asset sharing.
To attain this, Governor Gerard Roger Espina has called a meeting with the Biliran Bisexual and Gay Society JJC Naval Warrior and other officials of the province.
“Maraming pangyayari sa ating LGBT community na kung naospital ang kanilang long-time partner, hindi makadesisyon ang partner nila sa mga emergency health situation dahil hindi kasal. Ito po ang bibigyan natin ng linaw at solusyon bago matapos ang taon,” Gov Espina told the group during his meeting with them.
Espina added that he also proposed to provide a program that will give long-time same-sex partners in their province an option to represent his or her partners on medical urgent decisions through a signed agreement.
“Once implemented, this will be another innovation from Biliran that will give additional options to our long-standing LGBTQIA couples in our communities,” he said.
This plan of the provincial government was welcomed by the group.
“By advocating for equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, you are paving the way for a more inclusive and accepting society,” the group said in a statement.
“Your efforts are instrumental in ensuring that every member of the LGBTQ+ community in Biliran feels valued and respected. We are grateful for your leadership and support in promoting equality and inclusion,” the group added.
The group said that they hope this plan of the provincial government will result for a more accepting environment to same-sex couples “where everyone can love and live freely, without fear and discrimination or prejudice.”
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
