During the Pagduyog 2023: Sharing of Best Practices Congress held on August 30, an event coordinated by Mujer-LGBT in partnership with Yayasan Hivos through its Free to Be Me Program and supported by the Dutch Government, several local governments including the City Government of Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro City, Municipality of San Remigio, Cebu City, Iloilo City, and General Santos City, were recognized for their exemplary implementation of GAD activities.

The aim of the event was to share the commitment of local government units in advancing the rights and welfare of individuals who identify as part of gender and sexual minorities.

The City Government of Zamboanga was recognized for its continuous support and role as one of the LGU partners in SOGIEfying GAD initiatives through incorporation of SOGIESC principles in its local GAD Code and continued enhancement of the integration of these principles in its programs, plans and activities. 

“More than the recognition, our challenge still continues as we need to further strengthen our mechanisms in addressing the issues and concerns of people of diverse SOGIESC,” said Wilfredo Aporongao, head and focal of Zamboanga City GAD office.

Zamboanga City has also enacted policies and ordinances that explicitly protect the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals. These policies not only promote non-discrimination but also actively work towards creating an environment in which everyone feels safe and valued.

Further, to ensure that city employees and officials are well-informed about SOGIE issues, the city regularly conducts sensitization and training programs. This helps reduce prejudice and fosters a more inclusive atmosphere in government offices and services.

Zamboanga City aims to have a community free from violence and discrimination, “we call on every Zamboangueños to continue to advocate for a society that values and respects every individual; that embraces differences and supports one another,” Aporongao added. (KSA/MLE/PIA9-Zamboanga City)