JE C.C.
A recent panel interview featuring senatorial candidates Heidi Mendoza, Atty. Luke Espiritu, and Atty. Sonny Matula has stirred intense reactions online, particularly over their stances on same-sex marriage.
The viral clip, circulating widely on social media, captured the candidates addressing various social issues, with same-sex marriage emerging as the focal point of debate.
Heidi Mendoza, renowned for her sharp critiques of government corruption, shocked many supporters by responding “No” to same-sex marriage.
Her stance was especially jarring given her past campaigns, which incorporated queer elements on social media, raising expectations of a more progressive position.
Mendoza defended her view by stating, “Lahat ay may karapatang magmahal, subalit ang tunay na nagmamahal ay marunong kumilala at gumalang ng institusyon,” emphasizing respect for institutions like the church and the Family Code of the Philippines, which she said safeguards families from heterosexual unions.
Through a post on X, Mendoza further elaborated her point, arguing that she is more against the systemic flaws in the government that fail to honor same-sex love, saying “...I am not against love.
We are against a system that refuses to honor it, “.
We are against a system that refuses to honor it, “.
Critics, however, pointed out that she overlooked how such institutions are shaped by legislation—work she’d be tasked with as a senator.
The backlash was swift, with her “No” amplifying disappointment among would-be voters who felt betrayed by her pivot. Still, some defended her, arguing her anti-corruption platform remains critical.
She doesn't only support the marriage but it doesn't mean she doesn't support or respect the LGBTQ+.
— 𝕱 (@Flencexx) April 8, 2025
One supporter noted, “She doesn’t support the marriage, but it doesn’t mean she doesn’t support LGBTQIA+,” while another said, “We need Heidi in the Senate because her focus is on anti-corruption and there is no other person better for the job.”
This shouldn't be a nonnegotiable.
Alam kong napakahalaga ng cause ng LGBTQIA+ (kaya may ibang candidates na iboboto), but because her platform against corruption is essential, it still makes her more worthwhile than other candidates (affiliated w/ Team Kadiliman and Kasamaan)
— BloomNye/Bughaw | GWENtamicin (@DrBlueNye) April 8, 2025
Conversely, Atty. Luke Espiritu’s firm “Yes” struck a chord with many. He asserted, “Hindi naman singaw ang mga LGBTQIA+ di ba? Ang kanilang relasyon ay totoong relasyon,” pushing for equal recognition of same-sex partnerships.
Drawing from personal experience with his queer sibling, he added, “Maging tao tayo sa LGBTQIA+ community,” and “Ang tao ay hindi babae at lalake lamang.” His stance won over voters, with X user migosaur exclaiming, “Atty. Luke ateee!!!!” and another stating, “That ‘yes’ did it for me.”
Atty. Luke Espiritu ateeeee
— MIGO ᵕ̈ (@migosaur) April 8, 2025
Atty. Sonny Matula offered a “Maybe,” clarifying it is the marriage he opposes, but not civil union. His tempered response drew less fervor but positioned him as a moderate in the debate.
With Mendoza, Espiritu, and Matula lagging in recent pre-election polls, some netizens urged voters to rally behind these non-traditional leaders to disrupt a political system riddled with corruption and incompetence. The viral clip has heightened scrutiny on their platforms, with Mendoza’s anti-corruption record clashing with her conservative stance, Espiritu’s advocacy galvanizing the pro-LGBTQIA+ base, and Matula’s ambiguity leaving room for interpretation.
As the election looms, their positions continue to divide and inspire Filipinos seeking change.
