Akbayan Party-list Representative Perci Cendaña has filed a measure seeking to recognize the “lived identities” of transgender, intersex, and non-binary Filipinos by allowing the use of their preferred names and gender markers in official documents through an easier administrative process.
House Bill No. 9929, also known as the “Sharmaine Bill” or the Lived Identities and Recognition Act, aims to simplify the process of aligning legal documents with a person’s lived identity without requiring lengthy or costly court proceedings.
Under the proposal, individuals would be allowed to update their names and gender markers through an accessible administrative procedure, in line with their commonly used or preferred identity.
Cendaña said the measure seeks to address discrimination faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community whose legal names often subject them to ridicule and stigma.
“For many trans and intersex Filipinos, their names cause ridicule and discrimination. Madalas silang kinukutsa at pinagtatawanan dahil sa pangalan na nasa mga legal documents nila,” Cendaña said.
He emphasized that recognition of lived identities is a matter of dignity and respect, arguing that society already understands the use of preferred names in everyday contexts.
“Kung gets natin agad na Sharmaine ang gustong pangalan ng isang orange sa TikTok, kayang-kaya rin natin i-extend ang pag-unawa sa mga trans at intersex nating kapatid,” he added.
The bill also expands provisions under the existing Clerical Error Law (Republic Act 9048, as amended by RA 10172), which currently allows name changes when a person has been “habitually and continuously used” and publicly known by a certain name.
HB 9929 seeks to further streamline this process and extend protection to transgender and intersex individuals, as well as survivors of gender-based violence and child abuse who may seek name changes for safety and well-being.
Cendaña stressed that the measure is a step toward equality and inclusion, ensuring that individuals are legally recognized according to their authentic identities.
The proposal is expected to be referred to the appropriate House committee for further deliberation.
