Creating opportunities for all: Supporting inclusion and equality in the Philippines

Astrong society is one in which every person can participate, contribute and reach their full potential.

This principle underpins Australia’s commitment to human rights, gender equality and social inclusion. It shapes our domestic policies and our international relationships, including our partnership with the Philippines.

During Pride Month, we celebrate LGBTQIA+ communities and reflect on the progress that has been made toward equality, as well as the work that remains. We also recognize the courage, resilience and leadership of LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities. Pride reminds us that creating more inclusive societies is not only a matter of respect and dignity. It is about ensuring that everyone can participate fully in economic, social and community life, no matter who they are and who they love.

Australia stands shoulder to shoulder with the Filipino LGBTQIA+ community. This commitment is evidenced throughout our Strategic Partnership, including our development program.

Australia recognizes that progress on gender equality, diversity and inclusion is intrinsically linked with progress on health and rights. People cannot fully participate in society if they are unable to access safe, affordable and appropriate health care.

That is why we are supporting initiatives that improve access to health care, strengthen community resilience and reduce barriers to participation. In 2026, in Australia provided an additional P25.7 million (A$600,000) to support sexual and reproductive health and rights initiatives for vulnerable Filipinos. This support includes training health care professionals to deliver gender-affirming, rights-based and evidence-based care for transgender and gender-diverse patients.

These investments are helping improve access to health care while strengthening the capacity of health systems to respond to evolving needs.

Another important area of cooperation is leadership and reform.

Australia supports programs that bring together emerging leaders and reformers to tackle complex social challenges and develop practical solutions. Through support for The Asia Foundation’s Development Entrepreneurship Fellows Program, reform teams have received mentoring and assistance to advance initiatives that improve inclusion and access to services.

One such initiative is being led by the Pioneer Filipino Transmen Movement, which is working to address barriers affecting transgender Filipinos, particularly in health care and administrative systems. Their efforts demonstrate how local leadership and practical reform can help create more inclusive institutions.

Australia’s investment in education is also helping build the next generation of changemakers.

Through the Australia Awards program, thousands of Filipinos have studied in Australia and returned with new skills, expertise and networks. Many are now using their Australian education to pioneer support services for women and LGBTQIA+ communities.

Among them is Benedict Bernabe, who has helped strengthen public awareness and engagement around HIV prevention and health education through his non-government organization, The Red Whistle. Benedict and The Red Whistle have helped encourage conversations about health, prevention and community wellbeing in workplaces, public spaces and local communities.

Another Australia Awards alumna, Professor Sabrina Gacad of the University of the Philippines, founded Lunas Collective, a volunteer-led initiative that provides support and referral services for women and members of the LGBTQIA+ community experiencing gender-based violence.

These examples highlight an important lesson. Progress is often driven by individuals and communities who identify practical solutions to local challenges and work collaboratively to deliver change.

At the same time, challenges remain.

Research supported by Australia through the Longitudinal Cohort Study on the Filipino Child has highlighted the experiences of many LGBTQIA+ adolescents in the Philippines. The study found that bullying, harassment, discrimination and social exclusion remain persistent issues in schools, communities and online spaces.

These barriers can have significant impacts on wellbeing, confidence and educational outcomes for LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly during critical development stages.

Yet the study also revealed something equally important: resilience.

The aspirations of LGBTQIA+ young people were remarkably similar to those of their peers. They want to complete their education, find meaningful work, support their families and contribute to their communities. Their experiences remind us that the challenge is not a lack of ambition or potential; it is to ensure that everyone has a fair opportunity to succeed.

As Australia and the Philippines celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations this year, our partnership continues to evolve in ways that reflect the changing needs of our societies.

Supporting inclusion is an important part of that partnership. Inclusive societies are stronger, more resilient and better equipped to respond to economic and social change. They benefit from the talents, skills and perspectives of all their citizens.

The progress achieved in recent years demonstrates what is possible when governments, communities, institutions and individuals work together toward a common goal.

Australia remains committed to working with the Philippines to support health, education, leadership and opportunity for all. By investing in people and strengthening inclusive institutions, we can help ensure that everyone has the chance to contribute, participate and thrive.

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Marc Innes-Brown is the Australian Ambassador to the Philippines.