REVILLA SLAMS DISCRIMINATION VS PADILLAS

Senator Bong Revilla today strongly condemned the apparent discrimination experienced by siblings Robin Padilla and Rustom Padilla, aka BB Gandanghari.

The senator stressed that discriminations on the basis of religion and gender identity are intolerable in these times when the country desperately needs unity among its citizens.

"How can we achieve peace in the country if discrimination in all aspects of society still exists? We should uphold equality among our countrymen, regardless of his or her spiritual belief and gender preference," said Revilla, who filed Senate Bill (SB) No. 710 that would prohibit the use of words "Muslim" and "Islamic" in all forms of media to refer to any person suspected or convicted of criminal acts and SB 11, aimed to ban discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

Regarding Robin Padilla, the lawmaker criticized the reported deprivation of building permit for the construction and erected extension on Padilla's two-story residence at No. 9 Maple Street , Barangay West Fairview. It was learned that Padilla converted his house in 2005 into a school, the Paaralan ng Liwanag ng Kapayapaan, for Muslim and Christian children.

It was said that Padilla applied for a building permit with the city government but it was opposed by the homeowner's association reportedly on grounds that the school would increase incidents of "Akyat-Bahay" in their subdivision. "It is only proper that the government, as well as the public, be sensitive to the Muslims' social being as legitimate citizens of the country. The practice of identifying or associating criminals with their religious background is clearly a derogatory remark and promotes discrimination among Filipinos," Revilla pointed out.

Revilla also denounced the reported denial to Rustom Padilla, aka BB GandangHari, from entering Aruba Bar in Metrowalk, Pasig City last April 23.

According to reports, GandangHari was barred from entering the bar in violation of the establishment's "no cross-dressing" dress code. "Our Constitution declares that our government values the dignity of every person and guarantees full respect for human rights. The dignity and respect should also be applied to all, regardless of gender identity. Everyone must be deeply concerned about ending discrimination toward lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and trans-genders throughout Filipino society," Revilla explained. "Because of these incidents, I am appealing to my colleagues for the approval of my anti-discrimination bills."

Under Revilla's SB 11, it shall be unlawful to deny a person access to or the use of establishment, facilities, utilities or service, including housing, or any place open to the general public on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. There is a denial when a person is given inferior accommodations or service that what is normal.

Violators shall face a fine from One Hundred Thousand Pesos up to Five Hundred Thousand Pesos and four to six years imprisonment.

On the other hand, SBN710 shall prohibit any person to use the word "Muslim" or Islamic" in any form of mass media to refer or describe any person suspected of or convicted of a crime. Any person found guilty of the said violation shall face the penalty of Arresto Mayor (one month and one day to six months imprisonment) and fine ranging from One Thousand Pesos to Ten Thousand Pesos.

"Laws criminalizing discrimination will ensure job security, equal opportunities for employment and equal access to education, public utilities and government services for all Filipinos," Revilla added.