The Philippines are among the most open countries in Asia – queer people are very visible in the media, show business and everyday life. Drag culture, warmth and humour shape the country, even though Catholic traditions still strongly influence politics.
Legal situation: Homosexuality is legal, but there are no same-sex marriages or registered partnerships. A national anti-discrimination law (SOGIE Equality Bill) has been debated for years but not passed; many cities such as Quezon City have their own protective ordinances. The 2019 Safe Spaces Act penalises homophobic and transphobic harassment in public spaces.