A Love Left Outside
Years ago, Mark (not his real name) stood in a hospital hallway in Quezon City. Doctors rushed his partner into emergency surgery. When the nurse asked for someone to sign the consent form, Mark stepped forward. But they didn’t let him. He wasn’t the legal spouse. He had no authority. He couldn’t sign. This is a stark example of how LGBTQIA medical decision rights can leave people feeling helpless in critical moments. He couldn’t stay. He had to wait outside—powerless, heartbroken, invisible.
At that time, Quezon City offered no legal protection for same-sex partners in medical situations. Mark’s story was one of many. But today, the city is rewriting that reality.
Quezon City Leads the Way
In 2023, Quezon City introduced the Right to Care card—a first in the Philippines. The local government, led by Mayor Joy Belmonte, developed the policy with the city’s Gender and Development (GAD) Council Office and MullenLowe TREYNA.
The card gives people the legal power to designate a partner—or any trusted person—as their healthcare representative through a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA). That representative can sign medical documents, access health records, and stay present during emergencies. They no longer have to explain or justify their relationship.
By implementing this, Quezon City granted LGBTQIA medical decision rights and recognized the urgency of protecting chosen families.
Why LGBTQIA Medical Decision Rights Matter
Hospitals act fast during emergencies. But without legal recognition, partners or chosen family members often stand outside the process. They know what’s needed, but can’t speak up. They’re told to wait. In some cases, that delay has cost lives.
In Quezon City, many residents live apart from their birth families. They move for work, education, or freedom. They form homes with partners, housemates, or friends who care for them every day. These bonds deserve legal respect.
The Right to Care card acknowledges that love and care extend beyond traditional family ties. It gives people control over their medical decisions—and peace of mind knowing someone they trust will be there.
A Blueprint for Other Cities
Hundreds of couples have already enrolled. Public hospitals in Quezon City recognize the card, and private hospitals are beginning to do the same. The policy works—and other cities can follow its lead.
The process is simple. The cost is low. The change is life-saving.
Quezon City didn’t wait for national laws to catch up. It acted to protect its people now. That’s what makes this policy not just compassionate, but visionary.
What the Policy Offers
The Right to Care card turns caregiving into legal authority. It ensures hospitals listen to the person who knows you best—not just the one with the right last name.
This policy:
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Speeds up medical decisions
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Reduces confusion in hospitals
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Protects emotional and legal partners
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Saves lives
By granting LGBTQIA medical decision rights, Quezon City sends a clear message: every kind of family matters.
How to Apply
If you live, work, or study in Quezon City and are at least 18 years old, you can apply for the Right to Care card.
Steps:
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Visit the Right to Care program site
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Bring valid government-issued IDs
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Sign the SPA at the GAD Office
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Attend a brief orientation (if required)
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Receive your personalized card with a QR code linking to your SPA
Share the Story. Spread the Protection.
Quezon City created this card to protect its people. Now it’s up to the rest of us to keep the momentum going.
If this policy speaks to your experience—or to someone you care about—share it. Talk to your local officials. Ask how your city can offer the same protection.
Because no one should have to prove their love just to be allowed to care. And no one should face an emergency alone.
