Name: Christina E.

Turtoga_ Grade & Section: Grade 12 – Del Pilar

Position Paper:
Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage in the Philippines

Same-sex marriage is the legal union between two people of the same sex. It is a
form of marriage that has been traditionally prohibited in many countries due to social,
cultural, and religious reasons. Same-sex marriage has been a controversial topic in
various countries, especially in the Philippines, for several years. While some people
believe that marriage should only be between a man and a woman, others argue that
same-sex couples should have the same rights as heterosexual couples. However, in
recent years, there has been a growing movement to legalize same-sex marriage, with
proponents arguing that it is a fundamental human right. In this paper, I firmly stand that
same-sex marriage should be legalized.
Same-sex marriage is a constitutional right that is protected under the principle of
equal protection under the law. Denying same-sex couples the right to marry is a
violation of their constitutional rights. The legalization of same-sex marriage is a matter
of equality and human rights. Denying same-sex couples the right to marry is a form of
discrimination that violates the principles of equal treatment and human dignity. Every
individual, regardless of sexual orientation, has the right to marry and form a family, as
stated in Article 16 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Legalizing
same-sex marriage is a step towards ensuring that everyone is treated equally under
the law.
According to a 2018 report from the Movement Advancement Project, legalizing
same-sex marriage would extend important legal protections to same-sex couples, such
as the ability to make medical decisions for a partner and the right to inherit property. It
would provide same-sex couples with the same legal protections and benefits that
heterosexual couples enjoy. It can also reduce the financial burden on same-sex
couples by allowing them to share benefits and responsibilities, such as health
insurance and inheritance rights. These rights are crucial for ensuring that same-sex
couples are not discriminated against and can live their lives with the same protections
and benefits as heterosexual couples.
Legalizing same-sex marriage in the Philippines will reflect the will of the majority of
the people. A 2018 survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations found that 61% of
Filipinos support the legalization of same-sex marriage. This shows that the majority of
Filipinos are in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage. Legalizing same-sex marriage in
the Philippines will have a positive impact on the economy. Same-sex couples will have
the ability to form families, which will increase the demand for goods and services.
Same-sex couples will also have the ability to legally marry in the Philippines, which will
encourage tourism and attract foreign investment. The Philippines can have economic
benefits, such as increased tourism, business investment, and tax revenue.
Numerous countries around the world have already legalized same-sex marriage,
including Canada, the United States of America, Australia, and several European
countries. This demonstrates that legalizing same-sex marriage is not only feasible but
also beneficial for society. According to a study by the Williams Institute at the UCLA
School of Law, as of September 2021, 30 countries have legalized same-sex marriage,
including Canada, the United States of America, Australia, and 18 European countries.
The study also found that the trend towards legalizing same-sex marriage is likely to
continue, as more countries are considering or actively working towards legalizing it.
Furthermore, the trend towards legalizing same-sex marriage is likely to continue in the
future, as more and more countries recognize the importance of equality and human
rights.
Legalizing same-sex marriage can be described in other such as the recognition of
equal civil rights and liberties, or the extension of equal protection under the law to all
individuals regardless of their sexual orientation. It can also be framed as a matter of
social justice and human rights, as it seeks to eliminate discrimination and promote
equality in access to legal and social benefits associated with marriage. Additionally,
legalizing same-sex marriage can be seen as a way to promote social inclusion and
reduce stigma and marginalization of LGBTQ+ individuals in society.
Based on the principles of equality, human rights, and social justice, same-sex
marriage should be legalized. It promotes equality, social justice, and psychological
well-being, and has economic benefits. It will have positive impacts on the economy,
mental health outcomes, and social justice. In conclusion, legalizing same-sex marriage
is a matter of equality, human rights, and social inclusion. Denying same-sex couples
the right to marry is a form of discrimination and a violation of their constitutional rights.
Legalizing same-sex marriage in the Philippines is a necessary step towards promoting
equality and protecting the human rights of all individuals, regardless of their sexual
orientation or gender identity. It provides same-sex couples with the same legal
protections and benefits that heterosexual couples enjoy, and it promotes greater
acceptance and reduces discrimination. As international trends show, legalizing same-
sex marriage is not only feasible but also beneficial for society. Therefore, I support the
legalization of same-sex marriage.
REFERENCES:
Human Rights Watch. (2021, March 1). Australia: Marriage Equality Becomes Law.
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becomes-law
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Williams Institute. (2021, September). Global recognition of same-sex relationships.
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