Cong. Manny Pacquiao already said sorry on his comparison that same-sex marriage is “masahol pa sa hayop”. But he cannot retract that his irresponsible and homophobic statement can set dangerous opinion and precedent that Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transgenders (LGBT) do not deserve happiness and basic human rights. Cong. Pacquiao should be reminded that LGBT rights are human rights.
His disturbing statement is a concrete proof that homophobia is still a reality in our society and not an issue of the distant past. Despite the advance in science and reasoning, LGBTs still suffer from homophobia, discrimination and in worst cases, hate crimes. And like most Filipinos, majority also of LGBT suffer from the social and economic crisis.
But what makes his statement and even in his apology worst is his use of the Bible to justify his words. Cong. Pacquiao can always believe what he thinks is best for his soul but he should refrain using or quoting the Bible to impose morality and defend his irrational fear or homophobia towards the LGBT communities.
CPA as the broadest organization of indigenous in the Cordillera is one with the LGBT communities to call on Cong. Pacquiao and all those who think and look upon the LGBTs as second class people and even compared them to animals to rethink and read more about LGBT. It is not right to compare same-sex marriage as “mas masahol pa sa hayop”. It is not right to look upon the LGBT communities as second class people.
CPA as an organization recognizes and respects the rights and welfare of the LGBT communities. In fact, as a member of the International League of Peoples Struggle (ILPS), CPA supports ILPS Concern No. 17 which tackles the rights of gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgendered people against discrimination, intolerance and homophobia. Aside from this, CPA has been supporting and participating LGBT concerns and major activities such as Pride Parade. In Baguio City, CPA supports the proposed anti-discrimination resolution in the City Council.
It is high time that LGBT rights such as same-sex marriage should be one of the top agenda of candidates especially those running for national positions. Let the voices of the LGBT communities be heard./Jude Baggo, Public Information Officer , CPA
