30/04/2026
April 30, 2026 |
AN OPEN LETTER TO THE CITY GOVERNMENT OF DAVAO
To our respected leaders in the City Government of Davao,
We write not only with hope—but with urgency and accountability.
In 2012, Davao City took a bold and historic step by passing the Anti-Discrimination Ordinance, a landmark ordinance that protects individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, and other identities.
This ordinance was later strengthened in 2018 through amendments that expanded its scope and reinforced mechanisms such as the Anti-Discrimination Mediation and Conciliation Board, ensuring broader sectoral representation.
For years, Davao has been recognized as a city that upholds dignity, inclusion, and equal treatment for all.
However, despite these milestones, one crucial component remains missing:
The Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR).
As early as 2015, civil society organizations—including LGBTQIA+ groups—have consistently advocated for the IRR to be finalized.
Until today, the absence of IRR continues to limit the full enforcement of the ordinance, making it difficult for affected individuals to seek justice and for institutions to clearly act on violations.
Without IRR:
• Reporting mechanisms remain unclear
• Enforcement becomes inconsistent
• Accountability is weakened
• Protection remains incomplete
An ordinance without implementation is a promise not fully kept.
We acknowledge the efforts of the city in promoting inclusivity—from policies to visible initiatives—but real protection requires clear systems, procedures, and enforcement.
This is why we respectfully call on the City Government of Davao to:
PRIORITIZE AND IMMEDIATELY FINALIZE THE IRR OF THE ANTI-DISCRIMINATION ORDINANCE.
This is not just about compliance.
This is about people—Dabawenyos who continue to experience discrimination in workplaces, schools, public spaces, and even in accessing basic services.
The IRR will:
✔️Operationalize the ordinance
✔ Provide clear guidelines for complaints and penalties
✔ Strengthen institutional accountability
✔ Ensure that no one is left behind
Davao City has already taken the first step by passing the law.
Now is the time to make it fully work.
We believe in a Davao that does not only claim inclusivity—but lives it through action.
We stand ready—as partners in advocacy—to support this process toward a more inclusive and equitable city for all.
LGBT Davao City Coalition