Annual LGBTQ+ commitment ceremony pushed in proposed city ordinance

LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu — A proposed Cebu City ordinance seeks to institutionalize an annual symbolic commitment ceremony for LGBTQ+ couples as part of efforts to promote inclusivity and raise awareness against discrimination.

Authored by Councilor Winston Pepito, the “City Commitment Ceremony Ordinance for LGBTQ+ Couples” is set for first reading during the council’s regular session on July 14.

The measure would establish a city-backed program where LGBTQ+ couples can publicly affirm their commitment even though the ceremony carries no legal effect or marital rights under existing Philippine laws.

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Annual LGBTQ+ commitment ceremony

The proposal defines the commitment ceremony as a public, symbolic event where participating couples express their commitment before witnesses and the community.

The ordinance states that the program aims to provide a safe space for LGBTQ+ couples across the city.

“There is a need to institutionalize an annual program that provides a safe, respectful, and dignified space for LGBTQ+ couples to publicly affirm their commitment and to promote awareness against discrimination in all its forms,” part of the proposal reads.

If approved, the ceremony would be held once a year on a date to be determined by the city government. It may be scheduled alongside Pride Month or other relevant civic, cultural, or social observances.

Participation would be voluntary and free, with organizers required to protect participants’ privacy.

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Proposed guidelines

Only consenting adults aged 18 and above who meet the registration requirements would be eligible to participate.

The proposal prohibits discrimination against participants based on sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or any other status protected under applicable laws and local policies.

It likewise provides for city funding to support the program, including venue preparation, coordination, documentation, and accessibility services, subject to existing budgeting rules.

The Cebu City Anti-Discrimination Office would serve as the lead implementing agency and coordinate with the Office of the Mayor, the Department of Social Welfare Services, the City Civil Registry Office, the City Tourism Office, and accredited LGBTQ+ organizations.

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