President Duterte has ordered the creation of the Inter-agency Committee on Diversity and Inclusion to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, and + for inclusivity) community, and persons with disability, among other sectors.
Executive Order No. 100 signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea last Tuesday said the President emphasized that the State shall endeavor to advance and protect the rights of all Filipinos and shall cultivate a supportive, collaborative, and inclusive environment to maintain equal opportunities and recognize the diverse and empowered thoughts and perspectives of all.
The Inter-Agency Committee on Diversity and Inclusion, in coordination with the Commission on Human Rights and the Civil Service Commission, was tasked to develop a Diversity and Inclusion Program and provide guidance and assistance to agencies in the implementation of the DIP.
The DIP will consolidate efforts and existing laws against discrimination towards the identification and adoption of best practices in the promotion of diversity and inclusion.
It is set to provide framework for agencies to identify and eliminate barriers to equal opportunity in education, training, and employment; include programs to ensure that all personnel are able to manage diversity; and outline mechanisms for accountability in departments, bureaus, offices, agencies, State Universities and Colleges, government-owned or -controlled corporations, and local government units. (Argyll Geducos)
