Manila, Philippines — Following the escalating violence and killings targeting transgender Filipinos, several lawmakers filed a resolution seeking a congressional probe over these incidents.
Introduced by Gabriela Women’s Party Representatives Sarah Jane Elago, ACT Teacher’s Partylist Representative Antonio Tinio, and Kabataan Partylist Representative Renee Louise Co, House Resolution No. 1369 directs the House Committee on Women and Gender Equality to investigate these cases in aid of legislation.
The probe aims to check how police and courts handle these cases so they can respond much faster to threats against the transgender community.
Prior to the filing of the resolution, a series of deadly attacks was reported across the country, most recently the death of Jang Caes Macawili, who was shot multiple times on August 10, 2026.
Four transgender women have been reported dead in separate incidents across the Philippines in 2026, including Bella Lutap, Teddy Federico, and Betty Benito, raising concerns over the safety and protection of each individuals.
Through the inquiry, the Makabayan bloc seeks to implement new laws that strictly punish hate crimes motivated by transphobia and discrimination.
As Congress begins its review, supporters hope the probe results in urgent action to keep trans people safe.—Lance Enriquez, Contributor