Patients in Cebu’s provincial hospitals will now be able to formally choose a trusted person to assist in medical decisions and emergency care, regardless of gender identity, gender expression, or relationship status, under a new policy institutionalizing patient support rights.
Cebu Province has adopted Executive Order No. 29, which creates the “Right to Care Program” across all provincial and district hospitals.
The policy was signed on June 1 and launched during Pride Month opening ceremonies at the Cebu Provincial Capitol, where officials also lit the building in rainbow colors.
Under the program, patients may designate a care partner who can accompany them during confinement, receive authorized medical updates, serve as an emergency contact, and participate in care discussions when allowed by the patient.
The policy also extends to coordination with social welfare services, emergency response support, and psychosocial assistance.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro said the measure underscores inclusion in public healthcare services.
“Every Cebuano deserves respect. Every Cebuano deserves dignity. And every Cebuano deserves to feel that they belong,” she said.
She added that the initiative seeks to ensure continuity of care, particularly in situations where patients may not have legally recognized companions.
Baricuatro also stressed that “no resident is denied care, companionship, or assistance due to the absence of formal legal recognition.”
The program will be implemented in all provincial and district hospitals, with coordination among health facilities and local government units.
Discussions are also ongoing with the Cebu City government for possible policy alignment.
Provincial Youth Development Office focal person Mikee Empaces said the policy addresses gaps in emergency decision-making support.
“With the presence of a policy in place in different hospitals, they will be given the opportunity to make decisions for their loved ones who are in crisis or emergency situations,” she said.
Empaces added that the province expects the initiative to encourage broader adoption, including in private healthcare institutions.
“If this is implemented in our hospitals, I’m sure private hospitals will be influenced to do the same if they see that there’s good practice in public hospitals,” she said.
The provincial government will establish a Right to Care Registry and issue official identification cards or certifications for designated care partners.
Implementing guidelines covering registration, revocation, confidentiality, and data protection will be drafted within 60 days.
The executive order includes a non-discrimination clause covering sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, sex characteristics, marital status, and family arrangements.
Authorities said sanctions may be imposed on institutions that fail to comply.
Officials clarified that the policy does not create marital, civil union, inheritance, or property rights, and is limited to administrative recognition for healthcare and social protection purposes.
The rollout coincided with Pride Month activities in Cebu, alongside preparations for a province-wide calendar of events leading to the first Grand Pride Parade scheduled on June 27, 2026, in Cebu City.
Cebu Pride Movement co-founder Ramon Matthew Basabe said the event is designed to be inclusive.
“Everyone is invited—that is what we want to create in Cebu. It’s not just a meaningful event for the LGBT but for everyone,” he said.
He added that Governor Baricuatro and Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival are expected to participate.
Pride Month activities include the Run with Pride on June 7, Big Pride Picnic on June 14, “Hook Up The Musical” on June 13, Mister Gay Sugbo 2026 on June 26, and the Mandaue City Pride March on June 28.
Comments