LGBT Asylum News: In the Philippines, LGBT aim for Congress seats

Sunday 3 July 2011

In the Philippines, LGBT aim for Congress seats

LadLad logo

Source: Ladlad

“We are determined to win as the first partylist for lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders (LGBT) in Philippine Congress that will claim and reclaim the rights we have lost from centuries of homophobia, transphobia and discrimination,” thus said Ladlad Partylist Chair Ms. Bemz Benedito during a 16 June press conference.

Ladlad’s first attempt in last year’s election did not reach the margin to win a congressional seat because of many obstacles that Ladlad faced but this time, the group has committed to be persistent, stronger, compelling and prepared for the challenges.

“2010 elections has taught us many lessons that drove us to pursue what we started,” Benedito said.

Ladlad Partylist unveiled to the media the new logo and slogan. The group revitalized the image of Ladlad to be inclusive and reachable whether a person is part of the LGBT sector or not.

The groups’ Senior Party Adviser, Mr. Boy Abunda announced his intention in joining Ladlad.

“I’m aggressively helping and joining Ladlad as its party adviser because I want this to be my legacy. I want Ladlad to win 3 seats in this coming 2013 national elections,” expressed Abunda.

The LGBT group also presented to media the cases of discrimination that Ladlad is handling at the moment. Benedito stressed that discrimination must be stopped.

“Kasabay ng pagpakita sa bagong logo at slogan ng Ladlad ay nais din naming iharap sa inyo ang mga mukha ng diskriminasyon. Ang mga ganitong kaso ang tunay na dahilan kung bakit kinakailangan may representasyon sa kongreso ang Pinoy LGBT,” Abunda stressed.[Google translate: "In conjunction with showing the new logo and slogan Ladlad will also want to present to you the face of discrimination. These cases the real reason why requirements have representation in Congress Pinoy LGBT."]

On the other hand, Ladlad is inviting everyone to watch the play “CareDivas” at PETA Theater this coming July 17, which the group sponsored for one night.

“CareDivas is the first among the series of shows which Ladlad plans to offer the public. We wanted a show that would cater not just for the LGBT community but to heterosexuals as well,” Abunda said.

An open audition was also announced for singers and dancers (details to follow) who will be part of “Glee for Ladlad” or “GLAD”, the party’s volunteer entertainment group.