The Commission on Human Rights, as the country’s Gender Ombud, is disappointed with the veto on the Gender Responsive Restroom Program of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), which we consider a key gender and human rights item in the General Appropriations Bill of 2022.

Under the Magna Carta of Women or Republic Act No. 9710, all government agencies are mandated to adopt gender mainstreaming as a strategy to promote women’s human rights and eliminate gender inequality. This entails the conduct of gender analysis to pursue programs, activities, and projects that respond to the identified gender issues of the agency. The DOTr’s mandate includes ensuring fast, safe, efficient, and reliable transportation services. Aside from the Magna Carta of Women, gender-inclusive restrooms also implement Republic Act No. 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act. This appropriations item sought to address a specific gender and human rights issue—it was meant to recognise diversity of DOTr clients and ensure safe access to essential facilities without discrimination.

Efforts showing commitment to gender equality and non-discrimination deserve support through the provision of sufficient resources. The DOTr should be recognised and supported for this exemplary exercise of gender mainstreaming in the fulfillment of its mandate. ###