Sotto doubts Pope Francis' stance on same-sex union would move Pinoy lawmakers

Senate President Vicente Sotto III on Thursday said he doubts that Pope Francis' position in favor of civil union for same-sex couples would prompt Filipino lawmakers to approve a measure allowing such in the country.

"I doubt it," Sotto said in a message when asked about it.

He said same-sex union is already being practiced in the Philippines but same-sex marriage is still rejected by many religions and sectors.

"It's just tolerated but not in the legal sense. We should leave it at that. Baka mapag-initan pa," Sotto said.

The Senate leader has consistently maintained a conservative stance on issues involving the LGBTQ community.

Last year, he said there is "no chance" that the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE) Equality bill would secure the approval of the upper chamber.

The Senate can approve an anti-discrimination bill but not one that is focused on members of the LGBTQ, he added.—LDF, GMA News