Vice President Sara Duterte is pushing for the creation of a national commission focused on protecting the rights and welfare of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Speaking during her office’s “Kasarilayaan” Pride Month Reception held Wednesday at the Laus Group Event Center in San Fernando City, Pampanga, Duterte said she supports the formation of a National LGBTQIA+ Commission that will spearhead inclusive and empowering policies for marginalized sectors.

“This proposed body would serve as the comprehensive lead agency, coordinating with government bodies, formulating evidence-based policies, and developing vital empowerment programs—especially for vulnerable sectors like LGBTQIA+ youth who too often face rejection, school dropout, and homelessness, including the highest of the percentage of the HIV affected patients,” Duterte said in her speech.

She emphasized that while the Department of Social Welfare and Development currently leads an inter-agency committee for LGBTQIA+ concerns, a dedicated Commission is necessary for a more holistic and nationwide approach.

“While an Inter-Agency Committee led by the DSWD exists, a dedicated Commission is crucial for holistic, nationwide inclusion,” she added.

Duterte said her office is the only national government agency that has so far implemented clear and comprehensive employment and livelihood programs for LGBTQIA+ Filipinos.

“The Office of the Vice President, having seen firsthand the impact of both the presence and absence of targeted support, stands ready to champion legislative efforts that support the LGBTQIA+ community,” she noted.

She also urged lawmakers, civil society organizations, and ordinary Filipinos to support the initiative.

“Let us transform our aspirations into concrete laws, building a Philippines where every single person can live with dignity, security, and pride,” Duterte said.“Together, let us lift and uplift LGBTQIA+ voices, enrich dialogue, and strengthen our collective calls for equality and inclusion within Philippine society,” she added.