Quezon City’s Right to Care card applications now online

MANILA, Philippines — The Quezon City government has integrated the application process for its pioneering Right to Care Card initiative into the unified digital platform for government services.

Queer couples based in Quezon City may now submit documentary requirements and schedule their mandatory orientation through the QC eServices platform.

Mayor Joy Belmonte said the move reflects the city’s commitment to using technology to make public services more inclusive and responsive to the needs of every citizen.

“Digital transformation should make government more accessible to everyone,” Belmonte said in a statement.

“By bringing the Right to Care program online, we are making it easier for LGBTQIA+ couples to access a service that recognizes their dignity, protects their welfare and affirms that everyone deserves equal care and respect,” she added.

Launched in 2023, the Right to Care Card recognizes LGBTQIA+ partners as healthcare proxies and allows them to make medical decisions for one another in medical facilities within the city.

Quezon City is the first local government unit in the Philippines to implement the program, which has since been replicated in other areas.

Belmonte encouraged members of the LGBTQIA+ community to take advantage of the program.

To apply online, queer couples must be Quezon City residents or have at least one partner residing in the city.

Applicants must also have a valid QCitizen ID and an account on the QC eServices portal.

After submitting the required documents, the couple should take part in the mandatory program orientation.