The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Thursday raised concern over the so-called “Operation Supak” in Barangay Layog, Pagalungan, Maguindanao del Sur.
It cited reports that barangay officials, allegedly acting on orders from the mayor, visited homes of people perceived to be lesbian or gay and compelled them to report to the barangay hall.
Same-sex adult couples were allegedly separated, with a village official saying their actions were prohibited by “the laws of men” and by Islam, according to a recorded interview aired by 89.3 Brigada News FM Cotabato City on November 11.
CHR said such actions violate the dignity and rights of LGBTQIA persons and unlawfully target individuals based on perceived sexual orientation. It stressed that the alleged harassment breaches constitutional guarantees and international human rights standards on equal protection, non-discrimination, privacy, and freedom from arbitrary interference.
The commission also emphasized that no Philippine law prohibits women from living with women or men from living with men. Instead, it noted that the Safe Spaces Act and the Magna Carta of Women penalize homophobic behavior and discrimination, including on the basis of sexual orientation.
CHR called on the Presidential Special Committee on LGBTQIA+ Affairs to ensure coordinated protection and support services to prevent further violations. It also urged the Bangsamoro Rights Commission and the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government to investigate the legality of the officials’ actions and pursue accountability where warranted.
