A BILL seeking to strengthen the protection of intersex persons and uphold their rights against discrimination and marginalization has been filed in the House of Representatives.

House Bill No. 6994, filed by Representative JC Abalos, seeks to establish a streamlined administrative process that would allow intersex individuals to update or correct sex-related information in government and private records.

The proposed measure covers various personal records and identification documents, including birth certificates, passports, driver’s licenses, school records, and employment IDs.

In the bill’s explanatory note, Abalos underscored the need for legislation that recognizes the rights of intersex persons, protects them from discrimination, and promotes their overall well-being.

The measure noted that parents of children born with intersex variations are sometimes pressured to immediately classify them as either male or female, or subject them to so-called corrective surgeries and medical treatments.

It also raised concerns over the discrimination and rights violations that intersex individuals may experience throughout their lives, particularly concerning their right to self-determination and physical integrity.

The proposed legislation seeks to uphold the fundamental rights of intersex persons to privacy and self-determination, while ensuring that their best interests are taken into account in medical and administrative decisions.

It also aims to prevent discrimination, stigmatization, and marginalization, and ensure that intersex individuals can pursue education, employment, and social development without facing unfair barriers.

The bill’s explanatory note cited the landmark Supreme Court ruling in the case of Jeff Cagandahan, which recognized an intersex individual’s right to self-determination in matters involving gender classification.

Abalos said the proposed measure seeks to build on this legal recognition by establishing clearer administrative procedures and safeguards to protect the rights and dignity of intersex persons.