“Love is too beautiful to be hidden in the closet”
Thailand has now officially legalized same-sex marriage starting this January 2025, making the first Southeast Asian country to pass this groundbreaking legislation
Known for its progressive stance on LGBT rights, Thailand has long been considered as one of the most gay-friendly countries in Asia, granting same-sex couples many of the same perfunctory rights as heterosexual couples. As friendly as they are, the country’s film industry grew wide popularity for making a variety of LGBT representations in their films, drawing kilig moments to Asian viewers. The country’s openness to queer narratives has been evident since the mid-90s.
Same-sex marriage has come to represent societal acceptance and inclusion of the queer community. In Thailand, the journey toward this milestone began with the Civil Partnership Bill, introduced in 2019. Despite multiple delays, including a major setback in February 2022, the bill was a critical first step in securing LGBT rights.
Now times have changed. The wait is over for Thailand’s queer community. King Maja Vajiralongkorn has signed a landmark marriage equality bill into law, and endorsed it last Tuesday, September 24th. The legislation is set to take full effect for 120 days, which is expected on January 23, 2025, allowing same-sex couples to register their marriages at last.
“Congratulations on everyone’s love,” Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra posted on X with a hashtag #LoveWins.
So mga Sugboanons, after hearing this good news for Thailand, surely an important question has dawned on us Filipinos: should the Philippines follow Thailand’s steps? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
