BACOLOD City – The city government is considering the establishment of “all genders” comfort rooms in its buildings to accommodate all individuals, regardless of gender identity.
Councilor Celia Flor, who chairs the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Women and Gender, Family, and Childcare, confirmed the plan is in response to the requirements of Republic Act No. 11313, or the Safe Spaces Act.
Flor, discussing the initiative with the City Engineer’s Office, said that specific details about the first building to have this facility are still undetermined.
She emphasized the importance of providing a space where all employees and visitors can feel comfortable, noting the inclusion of LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) individuals and others who might prefer a non-gender specific restroom.
“This initiative respects personal privacy and preferences, ensuring that nobody feels uncomfortable,” Flor explained.
She, however, clarified that the introduction of “all genders” restrooms will not prevent anyone from using gender-specific facilities if they choose.
The councilor also addressed a recent incident in Cebu involving a dispute over gender-based address in a restaurant. She opined that the conflict, where a gay individual insisted on being called “Ma’am” was more about human rights than gender sensitivity.
Flor criticized the individual’s action of demanding the waiter stand for two hours as inappropriate, stating, “Demanding an apology or any form of punishment just because you want to be addressed in a specific way is wrong. It’s a human issue.”
Flor advocates for the broader implementation of “all genders” restrooms across public spaces, noting that other local governments have already adopted similar policies./PN
