Philippines recognises gay political party
A gay political party in the Philippines has won the right to be recognised as a legitimate party for the first time.
This week, the Philippine supreme court overturned a ruling barring Ang Ladlad (Out of the Closet) from contesting national elections in May.
The party, made up of gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans members, was denied accreditation by the Elections Commission on the grounds that it is immoral and offensive to Christians and Muslims.
It seeks anti-discrimination laws and support for gay-related businesses, among other things.
Associated Press reports that judges said the party had complied with all legal requirements and did not break the law as homosexuality is not illegal.
The decision said: “We hold that moral disapproval, without more, is not a sufficient governmental interest to justify exclusion of homosexuals from participation in the party-list system.
“The denial of Ang Ladlad’s registration on purely moral grounds amounts more to a statement of dislike and disapproval of homosexuals, rather than a tool to further any substantial public interest.”
Ang Ladlad seeks hopes to win 50 of the 286 seats in the house of representatives set aside for marginalised groups.
