MANILA - All-gender restrooms will be installed in select SM Supermalls in the capital starting November, its operator said Thursday.

SM Mall of Asia, SM City North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM Aura Premier, The Podium, and SM Seaside City Cebu will start installing all-gender restrooms in November to foster "gender-inclusive community," SM Supermalls said in a statement on its website.

“With inclusivity and innovation at the core of everything we do, we endeavor to create spaces where all shoppers are welcome,” said SM Supermalls COO Steven Tan.

The Sy family's retail empire will continue to provide safe spaces that advocate inclusivity, equality and respect for all regardless of gender expression, identity or sexual orientation, the statement said.

A mall in Cubao, Quezon City went viral in August after a transgender woman was barred from using its female lavatory.

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President Rodrigo Duterte earlier said he would certify as urgent anti-discrimination bills to protects members of the LGBT community.

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