The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresses its full support for the filing of Senate Bill (SB) No. 2626, or “An Act Authorizing the City or Municipal Civil Registrar and the Consul General to Change the Sex and the First Name of an Intersex Person Appearing in the Civil Register Without the Need of a Judicial Order,” as it values the right to self-determination, privacy, and non-discrimination, especially in terms of gender identification.
Filed by Senator Risa Hontiveros, SB No. 2626, also known as The Cagandahan Law, aims to simplify the legal process for intersex individuals to change their sex and names in the civil register without a court order, therefore promoting inclusivity. The name Cagandahan refers to Jeff Cagandahan, whom the Supreme Court allowed in 2008 to change his civil registry from female to male due to being intersex. In spite of this, many in the intersex community are still unable to access this option due to costly and tedious court proceedings.
This bill aligns with the Commission’s support for the United Nations’ affirmation of intersex rights [1]. Recently adopted by the Human Rights Council, the UN resolution urges Member States to implement reforms to increase intersex visibility and services suited to their needs. SB No. 2626 adheres to this resolution, strengthening efforts to establish a comprehensive national strategy for advancing intersex rights.
The Philippines currently employs a binary male and female framework for sex classification, which excludes intersex individuals and creates significant discriminatory challenges. As intersex people are not yet legally acknowledged in the country, the Commission views SB 2626 as a positive and crucial step toward their eventual recognition as a valid identity. We urge the swift passage of this bill to protect their rights and ensure equality, including access to and correction of official documents.
The Commission recognizes Sen. Risa Hontiveros’ initiative in introducing this bill which provides better avenues for Filipinos to exercise their right to self-determination regarding their gender identity and personal information. We anticipate that this legislation will pave the way for greater inclusivity and acceptance of the intersex community. Together, we can achieve a more just and equitable society, where all Filipinos, regardless of sex, are treated with dignity and respect. ###
[1] Statement of the Commission on Human Rights welcoming the landmark resolution of the UN Human Rights Council to protect rights of intersex people | 05 June 2024 https://chr.gov.ph/statement-of-the-commission-on-human-rights-welcoming-the-landmark-resolution-of-the-un-human-rights-council-to-protect-rights-of-intersex-people/