QC councilor wants toilets for gays

A Quezon City councilor has filed an ordinance that will require administrators of public places and private establishments to set-up separate toilets for homosexuals, who she said, have different needs and concerns from males and females.

"Setting up a separate and distinct comfort room for the third sex in public places and establishments will recognize their existence in society, thus enhancing their right to dignity as a human being," said councilor Janet Malaya of the city’s Fourth District.

But Malaya’s proposed ordinance was apparently addressing only the "needs, concerns and demands" of male homosexuals because no mention were made about lesbians.

Under the proposal, owners and administrators of public places and private establishments in Quezon City must provide a partition or cubicle intended for the use of homosexuals inside toilets for men .

Malaya said putting up of cubicles or partition for homosexuals in rest rooms for males would be one of the requirements in securing or renewing business and building permits in Quezon City.

"Owners and administrators of establishments should present proof that they have complied with the requirements before they get their permits," she noted.

Malaya said failure to comply with the ordinance would mean cancellation of business licenses and building permits.

According to Malaya, the Congress shall give high priority to the enactment of measures that protect and enhance the rights of the people to human dignity, reduce social, economic and political inequalities. "The State values the dignity of human person and guarantees full respect for human rights," Malaya said. – Cecille Suerte Felipe