UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines Remarks during 2024 Pride March

It is a great honour to represent the United Nations -a human rights-based organization- at this historic and global Pride celebration, joining this growing movement of advocates for gender equality. 

As you know, for many lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other gender-diverse (LGBT) persons, silence and invisibility are primary sources of marginalization and vulnerability. 

That’s the fundamental importance of this much-needed massive expression of dignity, allyship and solidarity in support of the LGBTQI+ cause.

We thank and congratulate the vision, generosity and courage of Mayor Joy Belmonte and the local government of Quezon City for leading this impressive human rights manifestation and we are here -the whole UN Country team- to help exceeding last year’s already record-breaking participation of 110,000 people! 

Discrimination weakens societies, divides families and destroy the most fundamental right of freedom. 

Discrimination strikes at the very heart of being human. 

Discrimination is harmful and perpetuates inequality.

We often hear heartbreaking stories of people who suffer cruelty, simply for belonging to a “different” group from those in positions of privilege or power.

Globally, we have seen a worrying surge in hate and discrimination based on differences in race, nationality, ethnic origin, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, and gender identity, which is unacceptable.

Unfortunately, LGBTQI+' rights to safety, healthcare, employment, and education, among many others, are sometimes curtailed, simply by virtue of how they dress or how they act. 

For some LGBTQI+ youth, wearing the “wrong” uniform or hairstyle may lead to suspension from school, disrupting their education.

Prejudice among healthcare providers has at times led to the stigmatization and discrimination ofL GBTQI+ persons, which prevents them from receiving appropriate medical care, or perhaps discourages them from seeking medical assistance in the first place.   

Such examples are not isolated incidents. An estimated 10% percent of the world’s population is part of the LGBTQI+ community, meaning about 800 million people who have faced or are vulnerable to discrimination or even violence.

As a staunch ally of people of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity and expression or SOGIE, the United Nations in the Philippines adds its voice to ongoing calls for the passage of the SOGIE bill and the Anti-discrimination bill to ensure equality for all, leaving no one behind.

But beyond legislation, we must continue challenging the negative social attitudes that underpin the multiple forms of violence and discrimination against LGBTQI+ people. And this is a daily battle.

On behalf of the UN Country Team in the Philippines, I would like to reaffirm our commitment to continue working towards a more just, inclusive, and equitable society, where human rights and dignity are a reality for all people. 

I look forward to marching with all of you later!