Quezon City has made history as the first local government unit in the country to enact a comprehensive Gender-Inclusive Health Ordinance, aimed at providing accessible, respectful, and affirming healthcare services for all—regardless of gender identity or expression.
The ordinance, introduced by Councilors Bernard Herrera and Dorothy Delarmente, creates a robust framework for delivering gender-affirming primary care, mental health support, and specialized medical services through the city’s public health system.
“This groundbreaking ordinance reaffirms Quezon City’s commitment to a healthcare system that is truly inclusive,” said Mayor Joy Belmonte. “Every citizen deserves care that recognizes and respects who they are. With this legislation, we are ensuring that no one is left behind in our goal of achieving health equity.”
Mayor Belmonte emphasized the urgency of removing healthcare barriers for gender-diverse and transgender residents. “For far too long, members of the LGBTQIA+ community have faced discrimination and limited access to essential health services. This ordinance is a concrete step in addressing that injustice,” she added.”
Under the new ordinance, all public health facilities in Quezon City will offer:
- Gender-affirming consultations and counseling
- Medical guidance and referrals to specialized services
- Mental health support tailored to gender-diverse and transgender individuals
Importantly, the ordinance prohibits all forms of conversion therapy and SOGIESC (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics) suppression practices, declaring them harmful and unlawful within the city.
In addition, the law ensures that gender-affirming care will be integrated into existing programs, such as HIV/AIDS prevention, disability services, and crisis support through the Quezon City Protection Center.
To ensure effective implementation, the ordinance mandates the formation of a Technical Working Sub-Committee under the leadership of the QC Pride Council, in coordination with the QC Gender and Development Council and District Pride Councils. Key health institutions—including the Quezon City Health Department, QC General Hospital, Novaliches District Hospital, and Rosario Maclang Bautista General Hospital—will lead in delivering and modeling inclusive healthcare services.
The implementing rules and regulations (IRR) will be developed within 60 days, through a consultative process involving LGBTQIA+ groups, civil society organizations, and medical professionals.
Through this ordinance, Quezon City takes a bold and progressive step in ensuring that healthcare is not just a service—but a right that affirms dignity, diversity, and inclusion for all.
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