In a 2017 report by Human Rights Watch, students across the country said they experienced bullying and discrimination in school just because of their Sogie. In the workplace, the Philippine Corporate Sogie Diversity and Inclusiveness Index (CSDI) 2018 reported that out of 100 companies surveyed, zero had policies protecting their employees from Sogie-based discrimination. 

The Sogie Equality Bill protects us from the discrimination that heterosexuals rarely experience—but while also protecting them. It is not meant to put us on a pedestal; basic human rights are not special rights or a luxury. They are not a privilege that should be given only to those who have earned themselves a spot to be safe in the world; they are rights that we all deserve.

It is high time for the Philippines to join the long list of countries with a national anti-discrimination law. With the hopes of giving the LGBT community full acceptance, and not just tolerance, this proposed legislation aims to finally eliminate the hate and discrimination against them.

References: https://ralblaw.com/why-is-sogie-bill-important/