Quezon City - The National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) kicked off its annual celebration of the National Women’s Month with an online seminar titled “Creating an Inclusive Workplace: LGBTQIA+ Sensitivity in Government Offices” held on March 4, 2026 via Zoom.

In her opening message, Atty. Neeneelyne C. Paguila, Chief of the Research, Information and Publications Division and Member of the GAD Focal Point System Technical Working Group, emphasized the responsibility of public servants to deepen their knowledge on LGBTQIA+ issues and treat every individual with respect. “In all our actions and in all our words, we must ensure that every individual feels seen, valued, heard, and respected” Atty. Paguila said.

The seminar, facilitated by Atty. Felicidad B. Ico, Former Executive Clerk of Court II of the NLRC Sixth Division, aimed to equip participants with working knowledge and a broader understanding of LGBTQIA+ concepts and focused on addressing frequently asked questions about the LGBTQIA+ community.

The lecture provided a comprehensive discussion of LGBTQIA+ terminologies, distinctions among related concepts, an analysis of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC), as well as Key National Issuances and Relevant Judicial Decisions. Atty. Ico highlighted the challenges faced by members of the LGBTQIA+ community, including discrimination in the workplace and in educational institutions. She cited data showing that “25% of LGBT employees reported experiencing discrimination at work in the last five years due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.”

She also presented some recommended measures to enhance workplace sensitivity and inclusivity such as conducting SOGIESC training, recognizing employees’ preferred names and pronouns, and strengthening organizational policies that will help in reducing prejudice and discrimination.

This activity forms part of the NLRC’s lined-up activities for this year’s National Women’s Month celebration with the theme, “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas!” and is in line with the Commission’s commitment to Gender and Development (GAD).

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