The Comelec’s initial decision denying Ang Ladlad the chance at party list representation did a great disservice to the country’s gay community. It’s a good thing that the poll body changed its decision.

More and more parts of the world consider LGBTs as accepted parts of their societies. More and more states in the US are now allowing same-sex marriage. Archaic laws singling them out are being overturned worldwide.

But not here.

Is there any question that gays and lesbians are still a marginalized sector in the Philippines? They are generally ostracized and deprived of their basic human right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Worst of all, they are still subject to countless forms of harassment and humiliation, which begin in their youth and last throughout their lifetime.

Party list representation will give them the voice they need to counteract the negative image of gays reinforced in countless ways by so-called “normal” society. Without such venues as Congress to air their side and to allow them the means to right the wrongs foisted on them,  countless gays and lesbians prefer to remain in hiding, or “in the closet.”

To allow them to seek a seat in the House of Representatives is a morally correct decision. When the gay and lesbian rights organization sought inclusion in the ballot for the May elections, their bid had been previously rejected on such odd grounds that they would bring “immorality” to the House.

In the end, Comelec’s decision denying the Filipino gay community the right to be part of our legislature was reversed. Their name will now be in the ballot for the voters to decide.

Gays and lesbians can and should be part of the greater task of nation-building. They should be given every opportunity to do their share.