The Marcos administration is seeking to institutionalize regular consultations with the LGBTQIA+ community through a newly created government body, officials said Tuesday during the first National LGBTQIA+ Gathering held in Intramuros, Manila.
The event, attended by more than 200 representatives from LGBTQIA+ organizations, civil society groups, and community alliances nationwide, served as the first major assembly organized by the Office of the President’s Special Committee on LGBTQIA+ Affairs since its creation under Executive Order No. 51.
Special Committee on LGBTQIA+ Affairs Chairperson Undersecretary Elen Pasion said the executive order signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. provides the government with a formal mechanism to engage the sector and incorporate its concerns into national policies and programs.
“On behalf of the committee and the LGBTQIA+ community, we thank President Marcos for signing Executive Order No. 51. This is a meaningful step toward a more inclusive and responsive government,” Pasion said.
According to Pasion, the committee is tasked with representing the LGBTQIA+ sector, integrating its concerns into government initiatives, and maintaining a consultative mechanism between the community and the government.
The inaugural gathering, themed “Pride in Unity: National LGBTQIA+ Gathering 2026,” was led by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, who hosted a luncheon for participants.
Organizers said the event aims to become a regular platform where government agencies and LGBTQIA+ organizations can discuss issues affecting the community, strengthen partnerships, recognize advocates, and promote collaboration across the country.
The Office of the President said the Special Committee on LGBTQIA+ Affairs is the first national-level government office in Southeast Asia dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights and welfare of LGBTQIA+ individuals.
