01/06/2026
๐
๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ญ ๐๐ ๐๐ข๐ง๐ฌ๐ญ ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ฆ๐ข๐ง๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐ญ๐จ๐ฉ๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ง๐๐๐ซ๐ง๐ฌ ๐จ๐ ๐๐๐ง ๐๐ข๐ ๐ฎ๐๐ฅ'๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐+ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ญ๐ก
SAN MIGUEL, Catanduanes โ Despite their active contributions to families, workplaces, and community initiatives, many members of San Miguel's LGBTQIA+ sector say they continue to face discrimination and exclusion, prompting calls for greater recognition and inclusion during the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sexual Characteristics (SOGIESC) Grassroots Consultation Tour on May 27.
Organized by the Provincial Youth Development Office (PYDO) in partnership with CAT-COLORS, CatSU-Karibangbang, and the Municipal Youth Development Office (MYDO) of San Miguel, the consultation gathered members of the LGBTQIA+ sector to discuss issues affecting their community and contribute recommendations for the province-wide Youth Pride agenda.
Participants emphasized the need to address persistent discrimination experienced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in various settings, noting that prejudice and stereotypes continue to hinder their full participation in society.
At the same time, many participants underscored the importance of recognizing the positive contributions of LGBTQIA+ individuals to their families, workplaces, and communities. They shared that despite challenges, members of the sector continue to play active roles in community development, caregiving, volunteerism, and local initiatives.
The consultation highlighted the need for greater public awareness and inclusive policies that promote respect, dignity, and equal opportunities for all, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or sexual characteristics.
Insights gathered during the activity will form part of the recommendations being consolidated by PYDO as it continues its province-wide consultation tour aimed at shaping a more responsive and inclusive Youth Pride Celebration in Catanduanes.
