Introduction:

Ladies and gentlemen, today I stand before you to discuss an issue about legalization of same-sex
marriage in Philippines. In this speech, I will present three key reasons why I believe that the legalization
of same-sex marriage may have far-reaching negative implications for our society.

First is the Societal Stability: Marriage has long been regarded as the foundation of our society, serving
as a cornerstone for family values and stability. By redefining the traditional understanding of marriage,
we risk undermining this vital institution. Marriage, as traditionally understood, is a union between a
man and a woman, designed to foster procreation and provide a stable environment for raising children.
Altering this definition may lead to a devaluation of the institution itself, potentially eroding the stability
and values it upholds.

Second is Prone to HIV Virus According to National HIV/AIDS Strategy(NHAS) this are the people who are
mainly affected to HIV/AIDS virus Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. And we also
need to remember that Philippines has experienced a rapid increase in HIV incidence and AIDS-related
deaths over the past decade, with a 411% increase in daily incidence from 2012 to 2023. Late
presentation in care is a concern, particularly among men having sex with men (MSM), who are
disproportionately affected. So legalizing Same sex marriage would possibly increase the rate of HIV
Virus in our country.

Third is Parental Rights and Child Welfare: Children thrive in environments that provide both male and
female role models. Traditional marriages often result in biological offspring, ensuring that children are
raised with the influence of both genders. Legalizing same-sex marriage may lead to complications in
determining parental rights and responsibilities, potentially depriving children of the opportunity to
experience the unique contributions of both a mother and a father. It is essential to prioritize the well-
being and best interests of the children when considering societal changes.

Conclusion: In conclusion, while it is important to promote equality and respect for all individuals, we
must also critically examine the potential consequences of altering the institution of marriage. The
stability of our society, the HIV/AIDS virus , and the well-being of future generations are all at stake. So
let us stop the legalization of same sex marriage and give importance to traditional marriage because it
is not just for our selves its also for our community. Thank you

Ang unang aspeto ay ang Kalinangan ng Lipunan:

Ang kasal ay matagal nang itinuturing na pundasyon ng ating lipunan, naglilingkod bilang batayan para
sa mga halaga ng pamilya at kasiguruhan. Sa pamamagitan ng pagbabago sa tradisyonal na pag-unawa
sa kasal, maaring ating ilalagay sa panganib ang mahalagang institusyon na ito. Ang kasal, ayon sa
tradisyonal na pag-intindi, ay isang pag-uugnay ng isang lalaki at babae, nilalayon upang magtanim at
magbigay ng isang stable na kapaligiran para sa pagpapalaki ng mga anak. Ang pagbabago sa depinisyon
na ito ay maaaring magdulot ng pagbaba ng halaga ng institusyon mismo, na maaring magresulta sa
pagkawala ng katiyakan at mga prinsipyong pinapangalagaan nito.

Ang Pangalawa ay Predisposado sa HIV Virus Ayon sa Pambansang Estratehiya sa HIV/AIDS (NHAS), ang
mga taong lubos na naaapektuhan ng HIV/AIDS virus ay ang mga bakla, biseksuwal, at iba pang mga
lalaking nakikipagtalik sa kapwa lalaki. Kailangan din nating tandaan na ang Pilipinas ay nakaranas ng
mabilis na pagtaas ng kaso ng HIV at mga namamatay dahil sa AIDS sa nagdaang dekada, na may 411%
na pagtaas ng kaso ng HIV mula 2012 hanggang 2023. Ang paglapit sa huli sa pangangalaga ay isang
alalahanin, lalo na sa mga lalaking nakikipagtalik sa kapwa lalaki (MSM), na labis na naapektuhan. Kaya
ang pagpapaligalig sa parehong kasal ay posibleng magdulot ng pagtaas ng bilang ng HIV Virus sa ating
bansa.

Ang pangatlong aspeto ay Tungkol sa Karapatan ng Magulang at Kagalingan ng Bata: Ang mga bata ay
lumalago sa mga kapaligiran na nagbibigay ng halimbawa ng lalaki at babae. Ang tradisyonal na kasal ay
madalas na nagreresulta sa mga anak na biyolohikal, na nag-aasigurong lumaki ang mga bata sa
impluwensiya ng parehong kasarian. Ang pagpapaligalig ng same-sex marriage ay maaaring magdulot ng
komplikasyon sa pagtukoy ng karapatan at responsibilidad ng mga magulang, na maaaring magdulot ng
kakulangan sa pagkakataon ng mga bata na maranasan ang natatanging ambag ng isang ina at isang
ama. Mahalaga ang pagbigyan ng prayoridad ang kapakanan at pinakamahusay na interes ng mga bata
kapag iniisip ang mga pagbabagong panlipunan.

Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) are often at a higher risk of contracting HIV
for several reasons:

1. Prevalence: Because HIV is more common among MSM, these men are more likely to have sex with
someone who has HIV, thereby increasing their risk of exposure.
2. Sexual Activities: Certain types of sexual activities, like anal sex, carry a higher risk of transmission.
Unprotected sex and having multiple sex partners also increase the risk.

3. Co-infection with other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs): MSM are also at increased risk for other
STDs like chlamydia or gonorrhea, which can make a person more susceptible to contracting HIV.

4. Barriers to Healthcare: Stigma, discrimination, and homophobia can deter MSM from seeking
healthcare services, getting tested, and receiving treatment for HIV.

5. Inadequate access to prevention tools: Limited access to condoms, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP),
and other preventive measures can also contribute to the higher HIV incidence among MSM.

Ang mga kalalakihan na gay, bisexual, at iba pang mga lalaking nagkakaroon ng sekswal na relasyon sa
kapwa lalaki (MSM) ay karaniwang may mas mataas na panganib na mahawa ng HIV dahil sa ilang mga
kadahilanan:

1. Pagkalaganap: Dahil mas karaniwan ang HIV sa mga MSM, mas malaki ang posibilidad na
makipagtalik sila sa isang taong may HIV, na nagpapataas ng panganib ng pagka-expose sa virus.

2. Uri ng Sekswal na Aktibidad: May ilang uri ng sekswal na aktibidad, tulad ng anal sex, na may mas
mataas na panganib ng pagkalat ng HIV. Ang hindi paggamit ng proteksyon tulad ng condom at ang
pakikipagtalik sa maraming kasosyo ay nagpapataas rin ng panganib.

3. Kasingkahulugan na pagkakaroon ng iba pang sakit na nakukuha sa pamamagitan ng sekswal na

pakikipagtalik: Mas mataas din ang panganib ng mga MSM na magkaroon ng iba pang sakit na nakukuha
sa pamamagitan ng sekswal na pakikipagtalik tulad ng chlamydia o gonorrhea, na maaaring magpataas
ng posibilidad ng pagkahawa sa HIV.

4. Hadlang sa Pangangalaga sa Kalusugan: Ang diskriminasyon, stigma, at homophobia ay maaaring

hadlang sa mga MSM na humingi ng serbisyong pangkalusugan, magpa-test para sa HIV, at makatanggap
ng tamang paggamot.

5. Kakulangan sa mga kagamitan sa pag-iwas: Ang limitadong access sa condom, pre-exposure

prophylaxis (PrEP), at iba pang paraan ng pag-iwas ay maaaring magdulot ng mas mataas na insidente ng
HIV sa mga MSM.

Mahalaga ring tandaan na bagaman ang mga nabanggit na kadahilanan ay maaaring magdulot ng mas
mataas na bilang ng HIV sa mga MSM, maaaring mahawa ang sinuman ng HIV anuman ang kaniyang
seksuwal na oryentasyon. Mahalaga para sa lahat na maunawaan ang mga panganib at gumawa ng mga
hakbang upang protektahan ang kanilang sarili at ang iba.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philippines enacted a new HIV law that lowered the age of HIV
testing without parental consent, incorporated HIV testing into prenatal care, and expanded public
health insurance coverage to HIV treatment.1 Although the number of new HIV infections in the
Philippines decreased between 2019 and 2020,2 officials also recorded lower rates of HIV testing,
antiretroviral therapy coverage, and HIV treatment initiation, and an increase in the number of pregnant
women with HIV in the same period.2 These changes can be attributed to the pandemic-related
restrictions, stigma, poor access to HIV services, and lower pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) access.2

When COVID-19 restrictions were lifted in the Philippines, the number of recorded HIV infections
increased.3, 4 The total number of HIV infections rose by 31·54%, from 74 807 to 109 282, between
2019 and 2022.3, 4 The number of new HIV infections increased by 14·64%, from 12 778 to 14 970, in
the same period.3, 4 The average number of people diagnosed with HIV per day increased from 35 to
44.3, 4 In 2022, the most affected were men who have sex with men, adults aged 25–34 years, and
people in the Metro Manila region.4 Therefore, the Philippines HIV epidemic must be addressed
urgently while the country recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. First, the HIV services need to be
expanded. Innovations from nations in which new HIV infection rates have decreased can be adopted in
the Philippines. For example, inspired by a solution from the UK,5 provisions for HIV testing kits that can
be purchased online and done at home could be implemented in Metro Manila and other areas with
access to online services.

Second, targeted prevention campaigns could lower new HIV infections among most affected
populations.5 For example, targeted campaigns in the UK have increased the confidence of men who
have sex with men in using sexual health services, increased HIV testing frequency, and improved access
to PrEP.5 Similar campaigns in the Philippines could improve HIV testing rates and PrEP uptake among
men who have sex with men.5

Third, stigma remains a barrier to seeking help with HIV-related concerns among Filipino people.2
Therefore, improvements in online information dissemination made during the pandemic (ie, webinars)
could be used to distribute HIV prevention information.

Fourth, PrEP is available mainly in urban areas of the Philippines.1 PrEP accessibility could be expanded
by training and supporting primary care and rural physicians to administer PrEP in their communities
through online and face-to-face modalities.

Overall, HIV services must be expanded as the Philippine HIV crisis re-emerges.

I declare no competing interests.

The Philippines' Supreme Court dismissed a motion to reconsider its September 2019 ruling denying a
petition to approve same-sex marriage in the country. The petition sought to declare certain provisions
of the Philippine Family Code unconstitutional on equality grounds. The Court ruled that the petitioner's
request was too limited and that the Court should have made direct arguments against other statutes
that treat marriage as a heterosexual institution. The Court also stated that the petitioner failed to
demonstrate that he was directly affected by the provisions deemed unconstitutional and that he failed
to abide by the "hierarchy of courts." No further pleadings or motions will be entertained on this matter.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has reversed a campaign promise to legalize same-sex marriage,
citing Catholicism and the Civil Code. The move has been criticized by critics, who argue it jeopardizes
the fundamental rights of LGBT partners and families. While same-sex "holy unions" do occur in the
Philippines, they are not legally recognized under marriage laws, forcing couples to resort to legal
instruments like "special power of attorney." The Philippines should join countries like the United States,
South Africa, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Uruguay, New Zealand, Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Portugal,
Sweden, and Ireland, all of which have enshrined marriage equality in their laws. Duterte's backtracking
can be remedied by demonstrating the political will to push through legislation to protect the rights of
the country's LGBT population.

Ibinasura ng Korte Suprema ng Pilipinas ang mosyon na muling pag-aralan ang kanilang September 2019
na desisyon na tumangging aprubahan ang petisyon para sa same-sex marriage sa bansa. Ang petisyon
ay humiling na ideklara ng Korte na labag sa Saligang Batas ng Pilipinas ang ilang probisyon ng Philippine
Family Code sa kadahilanang pagkakapantay-pantay. Sinabi ng Korte na ang hiling ng petisyonaryo ay
masyadong limitado at dapat sana ay isinama niya ang mga direktang argumento laban sa iba pang mga
batas na nagtrato ng kasal bilang isang heterosexual na institusyon. Sinabi rin ng Korte na hindi nagawa
ng petisyonaryo na patunayan na siya ay direktang naapektuhan ng mga probisyon na itinuturing na
labag sa Saligang Batas at hindi rin niya sinunod ang "hierarchy of courts." Walang iba pang mga
pagsusulit o mosyon na tatanggapin ukol sa usapin na ito.

Ang Pangulo ng Pilipinas na si Rodrigo Duterte ay bumaligtad sa pangako niyang legalisahin ang same-
sex marriage, at nagtukoy sa Katolisismo at sa Civil Code bilang dahilan. Ang hakbang na ito ay binatikos
ng mga kritiko, na nagsasabing ito ay naglalagay sa panganib ang mga pangunahing karapatan ng mga
kasosyo at pamilyang LGBT. Bagaman nagaganap ang mga same-sex "holy unions" sa Pilipinas, hindi ito
kinikilala sa ilalim ng mga batas ng kasal, kaya't ang mga magkasintahan ay kailangang gumamit ng mga
legal na instrumento tulad ng "special power of attorney." Dapat sumali ang Pilipinas sa mga bansa tulad
ng Estados Unidos, South Africa, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Uruguay, New Zealand, Netherlands,
Belgium, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, at Ireland, na lahat ay nagtatakda ng pantay na karapatan sa kasal sa
kanilang mga batas. Ang pagbabalik-tanaw ni Duterte ay maaaring malunasan sa pamamagitan ng
pagpapakita ng pulitikal na kagustuhan na ipasa ang batas upang protektahan ang mga karapatan ng
LGBT populasyon ng bansa.
Certainly! Here are some possible questions based on the paragraph provided: On the first paragraph

1. Why is marriage considered a cornerstone for family values and societal stability?

Answer: Marriage is considered a cornerstone for family values and societal stability because it provides
a framework for committed relationships, mutual support, and the raising of children within a stable
environment. It is seen as a foundational institution that contributes to the social fabric by promoting
stability, cohesion, and intergenerational continuity.

2. How does redefining marriage impact traditional understandings of family and stability?

Answer: Redefining marriage can impact traditional understandings of family and stability by challenging
established norms and values associated with marriage. It may lead to debates and shifts in societal
attitudes towards the roles and responsibilities within families, potentially affecting social cohesion and
stability.

3. What is the traditional definition of marriage, and how does it relate to procreation and child-rearing?

Answer: The traditional definition of marriage typically involves a union between a man and a woman,
with the primary purpose of fostering procreation and providing a stable environment for raising
children. This understanding is often rooted in cultural, religious, and legal traditions that emphasize the
importance of heterosexual unions for family formation.

4. Can you explain how altering the definition of marriage might lead to a devaluation of the institution?

Answer: Altering the definition of marriage may lead to a devaluation of the institution by diluting its
historical and cultural significance. It could undermine the traditional understanding of marriage as a
sacred bond between a man and a woman, potentially diminishing its perceived importance in society
and weakening its role as a stabilizing force.

5. What are some potential consequences of redefining marriage for societal values and stability?

Answer: Some potential consequences of redefining marriage for societal values and stability include
shifts in social norms, changes in legal frameworks, and debates over the rights and responsibilities
associated with marriage and family life. It may also lead to tensions between different segments of
society with differing views on marriage and its role in shaping social norms and institutions.

6. Are there alternative viewpoints on the role of marriage in society, and how do they differ from the
traditional perspective outlined in the paragraph?
Answer: Alternative viewpoints on the role of marriage in society may include perspectives that
advocate for greater inclusivity, recognition of diverse family structures, and the extension of marriage
rights to same-sex couples. These viewpoints often emphasize principles of equality, human rights, and
individual autonomy in defining and redefining the institution of marriage.

7. How do cultural and societal norms influence the perception of marriage and family values?

Answers: Cultural and societal norms play a significant role in shaping perceptions of marriage and
family values by influencing attitudes towards gender roles, sexual orientation, and family structures.
Different cultures may have varying traditions and expectations regarding marriage, reflecting diverse
historical, religious, and social influences.

8. What are some arguments in favor of redefining marriage, and how do they address concerns about
stability and family values?

Answer: Arguments in favor of redefining marriage often highlight principles of equality, fairness, and
human rights. Advocates may argue that extending marriage rights to same-sex couples promotes social
inclusion, strengthens families, and fosters greater acceptance and respect for diverse forms of
relationships.

9. Can you discuss any historical or cultural variations in the understanding and practice of marriage?

Answer: Historical and cultural variations in the understanding and practice of marriage are evident
across different societies and time periods. These variations may include differences in marriage rituals,
legal frameworks, and social expectations regarding the roles of spouses and families within broader
community structures.

10. How might changes in marriage laws or definitions impact legal frameworks and rights associated
with marriage?

Answer: Changes in marriage laws or definitions can impact legal frameworks and rights associated with
marriage by affecting issues such as inheritance, property rights, parental rights, and access to benefits
and protections. Such changes may require adjustments in legal and administrative procedures to
accommodate new definitions of marriage and ensure equal treatment under the law.

Certainly! Here are some possible questions based on the paragraph provided: about second paragraph

1. What groups are identified as being particularly susceptible to HIV/AIDS according to the National
HIV/AIDS Strategy?
Answer: The groups identified as particularly susceptible to HIV/AIDS according to the National
HIV/AIDS Strategy include gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM).

2. Can you explain the significant increase in HIV incidence and AIDS-related deaths in the Philippines
over the past decade?

Answer: The significant increase in HIV incidence and AIDS-related deaths in the Philippines over the
past decade is attributed to various factors such as changing social norms, increased urbanization,
migration, limited access to healthcare, stigma, discrimination, and inadequate prevention and
treatment programs.

3. Why is late presentation in care a concern, especially among men who have sex with men (MSM)?

Answer: Late presentation in care is a concern, especially among men who have sex with men (MSM),
because it often indicates delayed diagnosis and treatment, leading to poorer health outcomes and
increased risk of transmitting the virus to others.

4. How do societal factors contribute to the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS on certain

demographics, such as MSM?

Answer: Societal factors such as stigma, discrimination, lack of access to healthcare, and limited
education about HIV/AIDS contribute to the disproportionate impact of the disease on certain
demographics, particularly MSM who may face additional barriers to seeking care and support.

5. What is the potential correlation between legalizing same-sex marriage and the rate of HIV virus
transmission?

Answer: The paragraph suggests that legalizing same-sex marriage could possibly increase the rate of
HIV virus transmission due to factors such as changes in sexual behavior patterns, potentially leading to
an increase in risky sexual practices and reduced vigilance in practicing safe sex.

6. Are there specific risk factors or behaviors among certain demographics that contribute to the spread
of HIV/AIDS?

Answer: Specific risk factors or behaviors among certain demographics that contribute to the spread of
HIV/AIDS include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, drug use (especially intravenous drug use),
and limited access to healthcare and prevention services.

7. How does access to healthcare and education play a role in addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic,
particularly among vulnerable populations?

Answer: Access to healthcare and education plays a crucial role in addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic,
particularly among vulnerable populations, by providing timely diagnosis, treatment, prevention tools
(such as condoms and pre-exposure prophylaxis), and information about safer sex practices and harm
reduction strategies.

8. What measures can be taken at the governmental or societal level to mitigate the spread of HIV/AIDS
and improve care for affected individuals?

Answer: Measures that can be taken at the governmental or societal level to mitigate the spread of
HIV/AIDS and improve care for affected individuals include implementing comprehensive sexual
education programs, increasing access to affordable healthcare services, reducing stigma and
discrimination, promoting HIV testing and early diagnosis, and ensuring access to antiretroviral therapy
and other essential medications.

9. Are there successful strategies or interventions implemented in other countries to address the
intersection of HIV/AIDS and LGBTQ+ rights?

Answer: Successful strategies or interventions implemented in other countries to address the

intersection of HIV/AIDS and LGBTQ+ rights include community-led outreach and education programs,
targeted healthcare services for LGBTQ+ individuals, advocacy for policy reforms to protect LGBTQ+
rights, and efforts to reduce stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings.

10. How can public health policies balance the rights of individuals with efforts to prevent the spread of
infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS?

Answer: Public health policies can balance the rights of individuals with efforts to prevent the spread of
infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS by ensuring that prevention and treatment services are accessible, non-
discriminatory, and based on scientific evidence, while also promoting respect for human rights,
autonomy, and dignity.

Certainly! Here are some possible questions based on the paragraph provided: about parental rights and
child welfare

1. What role do male and female role models play in children's development, according to the
paragraph?

Answer: According to the paragraph, male and female role models play a crucial role in children's
development, and children thrive in environments that provide both of these influences.

2. How does traditional marriage ensure that children are raised with the influence of both genders?

Answer: Traditional marriage ensures that children are raised with the influence of both genders by
typically resulting in biological offspring, allowing children to have both a mother and a father.

3. What potential complications in determining parental rights and responsibilities may arise from
legalizing same-sex marriage?
Answer: Legalizing same-sex marriage may lead to complications in determining parental rights and
responsibilities, potentially raising questions about legal frameworks for same-sex couples, adoption,
and issues related to custody.

4. How might legalizing same-sex marriage impact children's opportunities to experience the unique
contributions of both a mother and a father?

Answer: Legalizing same-sex marriage might impact children's opportunities to experience the unique
contributions of both a mother and a father by challenging the traditional understanding of parental
roles based on gender.

5. Why is it important to prioritize the well-being and best interests of children when considering
societal changes such as legalizing same-sex marriage?

Answer: Prioritizing the well-being and best interests of children is important when considering societal
changes, as it ensures that any legal or cultural shifts take into account the potential impact on
children's development and family structures.

6. Are there alternative viewpoints on the impact of same-sex marriage on parental rights and child
welfare?

Answer: Alternative viewpoints on the impact of same-sex marriage on parental rights and child welfare
may include perspectives that emphasize the importance of love, stability, and the ability to provide a
nurturing environment over the gender of the parents.

7. How do cultural and societal norms influence perceptions of parental roles and the importance of
male and female influences in child rearing?

Answer: Cultural and societal norms influence perceptions of parental roles by shaping expectations
around traditional family structures and the roles of mothers and fathers in child rearing. Different
cultures may have varying views on the importance of male and female influences.

8. What are some arguments in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage, and how do they address
concerns about parental rights and child welfare?

Answer: Arguments in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage may emphasize principles of equality,
human rights, and the recognition of diverse family structures. Advocates may argue that children can
thrive in a variety of family environments and that legalizing same-sex marriage contributes to social
inclusivity.

9. Can you discuss any research or studies that have examined the effects of same-sex parenting on
children's development?
Answer: Research on the effects of same-sex parenting on children's development generally indicates
that children raised by same-sex couples fare just as well emotionally, socially, and academically as
those raised by heterosexual couples. Studies often highlight the importance of a supportive and loving
family environment rather than the gender of the parents.

10. How might legal frameworks need to adapt to ensure the protection of children's rights and well-
being in the context of same-sex marriage?

Answer: Legal frameworks may need to adapt to ensure the protection of children's rights and well-
being in the context of same-sex marriage by addressing issues such as adoption rights, custody
arrangements, and recognition of parental roles in a way that reflects evolving societal norms and
values.

AFFIRMATIVE SIDE

A recent Gallup Youth Survey found that girls are more likely than boys to approve of gay marriages,
with girls being almost twice as likely to support it. The survey also found that girls approve of marriages
between Hispanics and non-Hispanics, Jews and non-Jews, and blacks and whites. However, marriage
between homosexuals has a significantly different view between young men and women, with 56% of
girls approving of gay marriage. Church attendance has a significant impact on teen approval of gay
marriage, with 29% of teens who attend church approving of it compared to 53% of those who do not
attend church. Younger teens may also be more accepting of marriages between different groups than
older teens. The survey suggests that teenagers are generally more accepting of social and moral issues
than their adult counterparts, and their approval of interracial, interethnic, and interreligious marriage
may predict increased acceptance among U.S. adults in the future.