Even with the advent of globalization in the Philippines, gay marriages still spawn lots of objections especially from the religious sectors of society. Despite the growing number of famous members of the third sex who continuously gain acceptance for showing their true colors particularly those in the entertainment industry, the stigma attached to them still remains.
With this, one can not help but wonder why the Philippine culture objects to gay marriages. Maybe because most of us are raised in Christian families; thus, espouses the doctrine that a man is made only for a woman, not for another man and vice-versa. These Christian doctrines are well-ingrained in our culture due to the influence exerted by the Spanish friars on our ancestors.
Another reason maybe the absence of recognition for gay marriages in our family laws, especially in the Philippine Family Code. The Code is explicit in providing for a marriage between a male and a female. Even the present Philippine Constitution advocates the same idea as implied from instituting the family as a basic social institution.
Looking at these laws and doctrines prohibiting gay marriages, it can be inferred that the rationale behind the prohibitions is the impossibility of procreation. Marriages are entered into in view of creating families. Procreation is obviously possible only between members of different sexes. Therefore, marriage in the context of Philippine society is not merely companionship between two people in love, but more of a social responsibility.
With the above rationale, it is important for members of the third sex to understand that marriages between them are objected to not mainly because of who they are, but more of their inability to fully play the role of married couples in society. On the other hand, it is likewise important for most of us to know that despite our objections to gay marriages, we ought to show them the respect they deserve as human beings. It is their right to be accepted for all the choices they make and all the decisions they commit themselves to.
Indeed, there are numerous issues raised by gay marriages in Philippine society. Too numerous are these issues hence making its implementation in the country highly improbable. Differences in opinions do not matter though, what counts most is the preservation of the respect that we have for each other as fellow human beings, regardless of which sex we belong to.