08/06/2026
: ๐๐๐๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ฌ๐๐๐ ๐ก๐จ๐ซ๐ฆ๐จ๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ซ๐๐ฉ๐ฒ ๐๐ฆ๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ฌ ๐๐ฌ ๐ค๐๐ฒ ๐๐จ๐ง๐๐๐ซ๐ง ๐ข๐ง ๐๐ข๐ ๐
VIGA, Catanduanes โ Limited access to healthcare professionals specializing in Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy (GAHT) emerged as a major concern during the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sexual Characteristics (SOGIESC) Grassroots Consultation Tour held on May 27, 2026, at the LGU Conference Room in Viga.
Organized by the Provincial Youth Development Office (PYDO) in partnership with CAT-COLORS, CatSU-Karibangbang, and the Municipal Youth Development Office (MYDO) of Viga, 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, particularly transgender individuals, raised concerns about the lack of accessible healthcare providers with expertise in GAHT. They noted that the absence of proper medical guidance often leaves some individuals relying on informal sources of information or self-administering hormone treatments, potentially exposing them to health risks and complications.
The discussion highlighted the need for improved access to accurate information, professional medical support, and inclusive healthcare services that can respond to the unique needs of transgender individuals while ensuring their safety and well-being.
In her message, Viga Mayor Jennifer Tuplano reaffirmed the municipality's commitment to inclusion, describing LGBTQIA+ individuals as important contributors to the town's growth and development. She said the local government continues to work toward ensuring that members of the sector are recognized, represented, and given opportunities to participate in community programs, development initiatives, and local governance processes.
Participants also emphasized the importance of strengthening awareness among healthcare providers and institutions to create more welcoming and responsive spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals seeking medical care.
The recommendations gathered during the consultation will form part of the province-wide report being consolidated by PYDO as it continues its grassroots dialogue with LGBTQIA+ communities across Catanduanes, helping shape future programs, services, and policy discussions.
