Heidi Mendoza: I won’t oppose same-sex union legislation

Former COA commissioner Heidi Mendoza, who is seeking a Senate seat in the May 2025 polls, said Thursday that she will not oppose any proposed legislation on same-sex unions and apologized for hurting the feelings of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual plus (LGBTQIA+) community.

At a recent forum, Mendoza said that she was not in favor of same-sex marriage, adding that policies can be adjusted to acknowledge same-sex relationships.

In the wake of her remarks, prominent influencer Sassa Gurl withdrew her support for Mendoza’s 2025 Senate bid. The two had earlier met and discussed the pending proposed sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristic equality (SOGIE) bill.

“To the LGBTQIA+ community. Maraming salamat sa inyong katapangan, sa patuloy na paninindigan para sa karapatan, at sa inyong lakas ng loob na magsalita. Narinig ko kayo. At malinaw sa akin: may mga pahayag akong nakasakit at nakadismaya. Hindi sapat ang intensyon kung may tunay na epekto ang salita. For that, I offer my sincere apology and my full attention,” Mendoza said.

(Thank you for your courage, standing up for your rights, and your bravery in speaking out. I hear you/ And it is clear: I made comments that are hurtful and let you down. The intention is not enough if words cut deep. )

“I know that for many of you, my stance on marriage feels like a contradiction to the principle of pantay na karapatan [equal rights]. And I understand why. That is why I am making this clear commitment: I will not stand in the way of same-sex unions becoming law. My job is not to impose personal doctrine. It is to serve justice,” Mendoza added.

Likewise, Mendoza outlined a four-point commitment to action plan:

• to deepen her study and understanding of inclusive policy-making—to help build systems where every Filipino, regardless of gender identity or orientation, has equal access to education, employment, healthcare, and safety;
• to ensure that LGBTQIA+ voices are not only heard but empowered in the spaces where decisions are made—especially in her advisory team;
• to actively collaborate with LGBTQIA+ organizations and human rights defenders—especially from the grassroots and regions— to craft policies grounded in lived realities, not just theoretical ideals; and
• to remain relentless in fighting corruption.

“Representation is not symbolic. It is essential to meaningful, just, and humane governance. This is not about political branding. This is about governance that is just, humane and fair,” Mendoza said.

“The Supreme Court has ruled that public officials are not entitled to be onion-skinned. Criticism is not an insult. It is part of democracy. And in moments like this, it is a reminder that accountability is not punishment—it is service. [So] to those who continue to question, challenge, and call me in, I hear you. I will continue to listen. And I will not ask you to wait in silence while I grow,” she added.

Under the existing Family Code of the Philippines, marriage is a permanent union between a man and a woman. — BM, GMA Integrated News

For more Eleksyon 2025 related content and updates, visit GMA News Online's Eleksyon 2025 microsite.