CIVIL PARTNERSHIP, rather than marriage, is the “best and most feasible option for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community in the Philippines, Bataan Rep. Geraldine B. Roman said on Sunday. “Same-Sex Marriage and Civil Partnership have different names but they give us practically the same rights and obligations as any legally-recognized relationship,” Ms. Roman, the first transgender woman elected in Congress, said in a statement. Ms. Roman, vice-chair of the House committee on women and gender equality, cited the reality that majority of Filipinos remain unaccepting of same-sex marriage. “To say that the Philippines and Congress are already ready for Same-Sex Marriage would simply be dishonest,” the solon said. “For us to actually effect changes in our country, we have to keep our two feet on the ground and face the reality that Civil Partnership has greater chances of being approved in Congress,” she added. The Supreme Court on June 19 held the first oral arguments on the petition filed by lawyer Jesus M. Falcis III to legalize same-sex marriage in the country. Mr. Falcis and Solicitor-General Jose C. Calida have been directed to return to the high court on Tuesday for the continuation of the hearing. — Charmaine A. Tadalan

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