Duterte mulls creating LGBT commission

DAVAO CITY - President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday said he is planning to create a commission for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community.

Speaking at the 7th LGBT yearend gathering at Azuela Cove, Lanang in this city, Duterte asked the LGBT community to find the brightest nominee to lead the commission.

"Now, find me the brightest dito sa Pilipinas ngayon, might be gay or lesbian. You nominate the representative from the LGBT sector," he said.

Duterte added that he wants an honest and hardworking person to head the LGBT commission. He set a deadline for nominees until the second week of January.

"Mag-usap kayo. You nominate who is honest, hardworking. I would like to show that any, mapa-bakla or tomboy can work just like an ordinary human being," he added.

Duterte also said he is in favor of same-sex marriage.

"Ako gusto ko 'yung same-sex marriage. Ang problema, we will have to change the law. But we can change the law. I don't have a problem with man marrying a man," he said.

In a statement, Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte's administration wants Filipinos to enjoy their rights, freedom and equality before the law, regardless of gender.

"President Duterte is the president of all Filipinos. This administration has long espoused inclusivity and sensitivity. We make no distinction. We are all Filipinos enjoying our rights, freedom and equality before the law," he said.