'Gays and lesbians should not be discriminated against'

MANILA, Philippines - The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has no problem with gays and lesbians who want to take the civil service exam, but would require them to use their latest photographs in their application forms, especially those who have altered their appearance to resemble their preferred sex.  

In a memorandum issued last May 28, CSC chair Franciso Duque III said members of the so-called third sex are considered sexual minorities who should be given fair treatment.

“As human beings, (they) deserve to be treated impartially and to have equal access to public services just like other individuals,” he said.

Duque ordered all CSC regional directors to ask gay and lesbian applicants, especially those who have altered their appearances, to submit photographs and valid identification cards showing their present facial features.

Applicants who have undergone sex change or have altered their bodies will be required to present an authenticated copy of birth certificate to establish their identity.

If the applicants could not produce the requirements right away, the CSC would set a deadline for submission.

“Assure the applicant, like any other applicant, that the information he or she would provide shall be used for examination record purposes only and shall be treated with utmost confidentiality,” Duque instructed.