1

THE INFLUENCE OF THE LGBTQA+ COMMUNITY IN THE OFFICE AS

THE CATALYST OF LIGHT WORKING ENVIRONMENT

A Thesis
Presented to
The Senior High School Department
University of Perpetual Help System-DALTA
Calamba Campus

In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the
Senior High School Department

CELINE ELLERY R. CASTILLO

ANICKA JHOY S. LAGRISOLA
SABRIA ELLISE A. LANDICHO
DUSTIN M. LUMBRES
DOMINIC L. PAUG
RIZ C. PEÑALOSA
BERNIE H. PONTILLO
SHANNEN TROY N. TORRES

May 2024
 CHAPTER 1
2

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

The LGBTQ Community is a community well-known for exemplifying

resilience and determination. They are historically viewed as an oppressed

group that experiences a multitude of discrimination, and they even

encompass various forms of prejudice. The historical contexts that tells

about the workplace inequality that the LGBTQ faces have persisted over

time, but despite the adversities they face, the LGBTQ community has

continued to remain authentic to themselves for who they are. Many still

views life as positive, even encouraging others to do the same. It proves

how exceptional the LGBTQA+ when it comes their abilities and diverse

uniqueness.

In the face of these happenings, their strength and unity have

inspired and influenced others in profound ways. In the study of Xavier

Guadalupe "An Exploration of The Influences of Race, Class and Gender

Identity on The Help- Seeking Behavior of LGBTQ Survivors of Violence"

(2020) it was stated that "When considering LGBT survivors of anti queer

violence, it was evident that race, class and gender were influential

components in shaping the realities of these survivors' experiences."

 By showcasing courage and advocating for their rights, the LGBTQ

community serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for individuals who

3

may be navigating similar struggles. Through their activism and visibility, they

have propelled positive change and fostered greater understanding and

acceptance within society.

Within the context of the book of "Psychology and Sexuality" by

Elizabeth Peel (2023) it was stated that "External factors attributed to resilience

among LGBT people focus primarily upon forms of social support." The impact

of the LGBTQ community extends far beyond their own experiences, as their

bravery and perseverance stand as a testament to the importance of equality

and inclusivity for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender

identity.

Towards a study case relating to the "The Economic Case for

LGBT Equality: Why Fair and Equal Treatment Benefits Us All," Badgett (2018)

contends that discrimination against LGBT individuals impedes economic growth

by excluding significant skills and manpower necessary for societal

improvement. He suggests that a workplace environment more welcoming to the

LGBT community, with work ethics ensuring their equal treatment, appears to

strengthen the economy. Inclusion of LGBTQIA+ members can significantly

impact workplaces. Hence, fostering a more inclusive working environment

embraces diversity by creating a safe, equitable working environment. It entails

recognizing the influence of LGBTQIA individuals as catalysts for a positive and

dynamic work setting.

4

A brief statement is founded in the study about "An Exploration of

The Influences of Race, Class and Gender Identity on The Help- Seeking

Behavior of LGBTQ Survivors of Violence" (2020), with the statement simplifying

that "When considering LGBT survivors of anti queer violence, it was evident

that race, class and gender were influential components in shaping the realities

of these survivors' experiences". It can be closely examined within another study

by Owens, Mills, Lewis, Guta titled as "Work - Related Stressors and Mental

Health Among LGBTQ Workers :Results From A Cross-Sectional Survey"

(2022). “Work and workplaces have the potential to influence these outcomes

given their ability to amplify minority stress, and their ability to influence social

and economic well-being in this already marginalized population.”

Background of the Study
5

The LGBTQA+ community has a significant influence on company culture

and cultivates a pleasant work environment in today’s workplace. Even with

prejudice and microggressions that make them fel marginalized, the LGBTQA+

people continue to face advances, striving for inclusivity espcecialy in the

workplaces. A study that focuses about the “Diversity and inclusion for LGBT

workers: current issues and new horizons for research”, its brief context

discloses that these issues also impede their ability to grow professionally. In

order to overcome these obstacles, a concentrated effort must be made to foster

an environment where all workers are respected, accepted, and supported

regardless of their gender identity or expression or sexual orientation.

However, Amplo Global Inc. (2023) supports the idea that not only does

acknowledging the distinct viewpoints and contributions of LGBTQA+ people

improve workplace relationships, but it also fosters creativity, teamwork, and

overall productivity. Thus, utilizing the LGBTQA+ community’s influence serves

as a spark for establishing an environment at work that values diversity and

gives every employee the freedom to live according to who they are.

According to Fletcher, Luke, and T. Alexandra Beauregard in their related

study of “The psychology of diversity and its implications for workplace (in)

equality: Looking back at the last decade and forward to the next" (2022), As our
society progresses, the significance of having a diverse and inclusive workplace

is becoming increasingly apparent. Among the various aspects of diversity, the

6

representation and influence of the LGBTQA+ community are of utmost

importance. In a qualitative study of Williams, Ashley, Neill Thompson, and

Binna Kandola (2022) titled "Sexual orientation diversity and inclusion in the

workplace: A qualitative study of LGBTQ inclusion in a UK public sector

organization.”, it observes that the LGBTQA+ individuals bring unique

perspectives, experiences, and skills to the workforce, making invaluable

contributions to organizational culture's overall richness and vibrancy. Their

presence promotes equity and fairness, increasing employee morale and

productivity. By valuing and celebrating diversity, organizations can unlock the

full potential of their workforce and create a more positive and inclusive work

environment for all.

Therefore, companies must recognize the importance of diversity and

inclusion and take proactive measures to ensure it in their workplace. Another

study backs up the significance of this context formulated by Henderson,

Melanie M., Kyle A. Simon, and Jacob Henicheck titled "The relationship

between sexuality–professional identity integration and leadership in the

workplace." (2018), these results suggest that integration across personal and

professional identities is associated with a more positive work environment,

which in turn facilitates the incorporation of relational concerns when influencing

others.
7

In the study of Dyson which regards “The Benefits of Workplace Diversity:

The Value of LGBTQA+ Members” (2024), pro-LGBTQ laws will, first and

foremost, immediately benefit individual workers by reducing workplace

discrimination and increasing their comfort levels by openly identifying as

LGBTQ+. Another study serves as an evidence showing that LGBTQ+

employees who experience pressure to conceal their identities at work often

experience higher levels of stress and anxiety. This can lead to complaints about

their jobs and health problems. Employers may lessen stress, enhance the well-

being of their LGBTQ+ workforce, boost job satisfaction, and fortify bonds with

supervisors and colleagues by fostering an LGBTQ-friendly workplace. Within

the study conducted by Gonzalez, Jorge A., and Joseph Simpson in their study

titled as "The workplace integration of veterans: Applying diversity and fit

perspectives."(2021), a person-environment fit viewpoint best describes how

well people fit into their work settings in terms of organizational expectations and

veteran requirements, while diversity aids in understanding veterans as a social

group and their inclusion in the workplace.

This background relates to how the LGBTQA+ influences their work

environment and from how their involved workmates describe how well they
blend into their environment and whether they fulfill expectations and

requirements needed of them in their respective workplaces.

8

Theoretical Framework

In the world of qualitative research, such theories apply in order to further

understand the complexity of human interactions, understanding, and subjective

reason. The theories such as interaction-ism, phenomenology, and critical

theory are considered relevant and highly recommended in conducting our

study. These theories apply in accordance with the coverage of our research;

from the perceptions of the workmates, as telling about their individual

experiences which resonates feedback as to how their LGBTQA+ workmate

behaves. The practice of daily interactions are to be applied as well to this

research, within the usage of the theory of interaction-ism. Theories that involve

criticism such as critical theory which aims to attain social equity are to be used

as an application as well in this research.

Interaction-ism, a theory mainly developed by George Herbert Mead,

explains the interactive cycle between the individual and their social behavior. It

studies the way how individuals shape the society around them, and vice versa.

By concerning to how the subject of our study behaves, their product of

influence upon their environment can be closely examined.

By this theory, it understands the daily movement of the LGBTQA+

members within their workplace by focusing on their interactions processed with

their workmates. The theory of phenomenology, on the other hand, is a theory

formed by the idea of Martin Heidegger. It studies about the lived experience of
9

individuals as they co-exist within the world around them. This, of course,

associates within the living boundaries of the workers within the work

environment, the perceptions needed for our data gathering stemming out from

their subjective and personal response; mainly their critical experiences about

their LGBTQA+ fellow worker.

Lastly, the critical theory. It discusses the social change that can be

derived from critical judgments arising from a person’s observation in his or her

own society. Though this theory is relevantly connected to our study, it won't be

thoroughly applied. But in terms of the norms and values correlated with the

significance of the LGBTQA+ community’s seen oppression in our wide

conflicting society, this theory can be significant by analyzing the following

perspectives of each responsive individuals in this research. Through that, their

abstract perceptions about their LGBTQA+ workmate can contribute as a whole

through the significance of this research and how it can impact the social

judgments of our society as they gain knowledge about the influence of the

LGBTQA+ in their work environment.

However, the phenomenological theory serves a strong framework in

conducting this study as it gives readers a consistent insight as to how the

workmates perceive their LGBTQA+ workmate in their working place. Thus, this
theory manifests a clear sense of direction in steering the research to its

objectives.
10

Hence, this research will apply this knowledge of inquiry in navigating the

complicated outlooks of individuals within the concern of how another person

influences the environment he or she is also working upon.

 11
Conceptual Framework

This section presents below the conceptual framework of the study. It

involves the input, process, and output together with the feedback.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

1. What are the A letter of request to
perceptions of conduct the study was
workmates toward prepared.
LGBTQA+
Community as part The researchers will
of their working construct a validated
environment? researcher-made
interview questions. The
2. How does the
LGBTQA+ The researchers will researchers
Community behave conduct the interview will analyze
during the working in the offices and
hours? and interpret
companies.
the data
3. How the society The researchers will
interacts with the gathered.
clarify the terms to the
LGBTQA+
respondents and ask
workers?
them to answer with
4. How does the full honesty will
LGBTQA+ knowledge and
Community responsibility as the
influence the subject of the study.
working
environment by The researchers will
providing a light collect the data.
environment?

FEEDBACK
 12
Statement of the Problem

This study is to identify the influence of the LGBTQA+ Community in the

office and how they serve as a catalyst for a light working environment. It aims to

know the perceptions of the workmates of the LGBTQA+ community member as

being part of the working environment, as well as the behaviors of the LGBTQA+

observed by the workmates during working hours, and how the society interacts

with the LGBTQA+ workers. In this research, the readers will gain an idea on

how the LGBTQA+ Community influence the office by providing a light working

environment.

Research Questions

This study aims to answer the following questions:

1.What are the perceptions of workmates toward LGBTQA+ Community as

part of their working environment?

2.How does the LGBTQA+ Community behave during the working hours?

3.How the society interacts with the LGBTQA+ workers?

4.How does the LGBTQA+ Community influence the working environment

by providing a light environment?

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Significance of the Study

Specifically, the study will be beneficial to the following:

Workmates of the LGBTQA+ members. The LGBTQA+ community’s

presence in the workplace, which serves as a catalyst for a pleasant work

environment. It raises staff morale and satisfaction, which lowers turnover

costs and raises retention rates. It also stimulates team creativity and

invention via the promotion of inclusion and diversity, which in turn propels

corporate development and boosts competitiveness. It can also enhance the

employer’s reputation, attracting top talent and presenting the business to

consumers and workers as a forward-thinking, socially responsible

enterprise.

Workers who identified as LGBTQIA+. This research will acknowledge

LGBTQIA+ individuals within their workplace. The results of this study will

uncover the experiences of being LGBTQIA+ in a working environment. This

recognition will make them feel appreciated as they work toward creating a

more inclusive environment. It will help them build more professional

relationships with their coworkers, improving the overall working

environment.
 14
Researchers. This study is expected to play an important role in raising

awareness and understanding the influence of the LGBTQ community

towards their co- workers regardless of the prejudice towards them and to

dwell on the importance of their contributions to the essence of societal

issues.

Future Researchers. This study contributes to the convenience of the said

beneficiaries towards a related study to be conducted in the near future. It

aims to contribute additional knowledge that will serve as their future guide

in this field of study.

Private / Government Offices. The results of this study contributes to the

encouragement among both private and government offices about the

inclusivity of the LGBTQA+ members in the workplaces, promoting to create

a balanced working environment that strives to accept members from the

said spectrum in hopes to standardize the recruitment of LGBTQA+

members in both office environments.

 15
The LGBTQA+ Community. The results of this study contributes to the

overall inclusivity of the recruitment standard among LGBTQA+ members in

the country’s workplaces. This study promotes the role of the said spectrum in

influencing the work environment in this country, working in benefit of all

persons involved with the mentioned beneficiary of this study.

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

The study to be conducted is limited to the workmates of the LGBTQA+

members present in the specific work environment. Their perception must be

gathered in order to complete the qualitative data needed in conducting this

study. The study also specifically aims to know how the LGBTQA+ members

influence the office and how they serve as the catalyst to a light working

environment through the perceptions of their workmates towards them.

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Definition of Terms

LGBTQA+. An acronym that brings together many different gender and

sexual identities across society; it stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual,

transgender,queer, asexual, and more which gives definition to diverse

individuals that play a positive role in our community.

Light-working Environment. The term used to describe the type of working

environment in the office which gives focus to giving positivity and light

attitude shared among the workmates.

Catalyst. It refers to a factor—that being LGBTQIA+ members—within a

workplace that brings and initiates positive change. It talks about the role

of LGBTQIA workers in creating a light workplace environment with their

other workmates and employees.

Workers. refer to all individuals who are hired, working, and receiving

wages in a particular place in exchange for their time and work.

Workmates. refer to the persons working under the same work or office

setting with the LGBTQIA+ individual.

Office. The setting of the study that describes the work environment of the

target population.
 17
CHAPTER 2

Review of Related Literature and Studies

Introduction

This chapter introduces the literature and studies that are relevant

to the present study conducted by the researchers. It aims to shed light

on the current topic by examining the related fie ld of studies and

literature from both foreign and local reviews. This chapter provides all

the necessary background information that supports the present study

chosen by the researchers.

Foreign Literature

The LGBTQIA+ is known for their distinction when it comes to

human sexuality, and their spectrum has different impacts on society

over time which can also result to different perceptions that society builds

in their heads. People may project their own judgments through their

perception of an individual, regardless of the influences that the

LGBTQIA+ demonstrates within their work setting, positive or not.

The LGBTQA+ is primarily known for its wide range of diversity

when it comes to sexual identities. It is the basis for a person’s

belongingness within a set of particularly oriented individuals. For

instance, the Lesbian stands for the L, Gay for the G, Bisexual for the B,

and Transgender for the T. The said gender and sexuality spectrum
18

annotates the differences of each person when it comes to regarding

their own identity themselves. Thus these types of preferences can vary

among individuals and each one has a way of introducing themselves to

society. However, the life-work balance of individuals has their own set of

demands and an LGBTQA+ may have to find ways to project themselves

to other people (Ueno, 2023). Focusing on the instance of being in the

office, workmates can have their particular perceptions of their LGBTQA+

co-worker. This can vary depending on the perspectives of one another,

may it be in a negative light or a positive light.

According to the researcher, it can be said that the prompt for a

positive working environment includes the openness of an individual

towards his or her very own sexual identity. It usually refers to the

“coming-out" or the state of disclosing his or her sexual identity to the

public. The disclosure of an LGBTQA+ individual's sexual orientation at

work was connected with their beliefs of having had many positive

contacts with both professional and interpersonal opportunities.

Additionally, gender identity declaration and sexual orientation disclosure

are similar, yet different, in terms of perceived pleasant experiences.

(Salter & Sasso, 2021)

 This regards the vital potential of being able to influence the

people working closely with the LGBTQA+ individual. In fact, Salter et al.
19

(2021) argues that there are actually some benefits of being sexually

open at one’s workplace . Instances produced by the Human Rights

Campaign Foundation are making deeper friendships possible, breaking

down barriers to understanding, building trusting working relationships,

and increasing the ability to be more productive at work. With these vital

and light influences projected by the LGBTQA+ individual themselves, it

leads to the ability to foster an impact among their co-workers.These

impacts are associated with being the catalyst of a light working

environment, defined overall as a potential cause of positivity in a work

setting.

According to Inquirer.net, the term ‘catalyst’ refers to an innovative

or an effective employee in terms of the business context. These

individuals are likely to give new momentum and advancements to a

certain workplace that can help an environment move forward. In further

notice, they can be sometimes given the title as ‘employees of the year’.

According to PWC, businesses are likely to succeed in an environment

that enables diverse talent to thrive. “Focusing actively on the LGBTQ+

community in the wo rkplace is absolutely critical." As given by Jes

Stanley, Group Chief Executive of Barclays. This supports the idea that
investing in such communities including LGBTQA+ individuals can be

rather urgent and in need of such outreaching actions like the PWC’s Out
20

to Succeed: Realizing the Full Potential of LGBTQ+ Talent.

Local Literature

In the book "More Tomboy, More Bakla Than We Admit : Insights

Into Sexual and Gender Diversity in Philippine Culture, History, and

Politics" (2021) by Mark Blasius and Richard Chu, it was stated that

"homosexuals have many contributions just like our daily vocabulary,

which we don't even realize we are using, many forgive it for "Gay

Linggo" or the language of homosexuals. "Gay Linggo" enriches our

language by learning and inventing creative unique words. They also

help a lot in our society, they give us pleasure whenever we are sad

because of their ability to make us laugh."

Homosexual individuals have made significant contributions to

society, analogous to how our vocabulary constantly evolves without us

realizing it. The phenomenon casually referred to as "Gay Linggo"

highlights the creativity of the LGBTQ+ community in introducing new,

imaginative terms that enrich our language and cultural expressions.

Beyond linguistic influences, it is important to recognize the broader

impact of homosexuals within our communities. Their unique

perspectives and humor play a vital role in uplifting spirits and providing
joy during moments of sadness. By fostering acceptance and celebrating

diversity, members of the LGBTQ+ community contribute to a more

21

inclusive and vibrant society that benefits us all.

The book "Aura: The Gay Theme in Philippine Fiction" in English

(2012) by J. Neil Garcia suggests that "This account proves that the

existence of gays in the Philippines is not new. And Garcia’s anthology

portrays their experiences, explores personal, familial, and social

struggles therein, and affirms the gay self of each narrative’s protagonist.

This imaging of the gay self, however, is not limited only to gay

performance, as it were. It also portrays and critiques patriarchy in a

Philippine context. More specifically, it defies the expectations of such a

society, a resistance evident in the narratives of The Doll, Twice Blessed,

The Chamber of the Sea, Miss Unibers, Blame It, Lips, Introibo, Clay,

Summer Solstice, Bamboo Dancers, In Hog Heaven, Song I Did Not

Hear, and The Husband."

According to Wright (2017), queer writings, as such, are not only

exclusive for gay writers but to women writers as well and this is a

remarkable note in the receptions of this diverse genre in Philippine

literature. Over the course of history, it has been undeniably established

that the LGBTQ+ community has a longstanding presence, persisting

through various challenges while consistently making notable

contributions. Despite facing oppression and discrimination, the

resilience portrayed by the LGBTQ+ community has served as a source

22

of inspiration for others, fostering growth and empowerment in diverse

spheres such as education, employment, and community engagement.

This enduring influence extends beyond mere visibility, encompassing

the invaluable impact on personal and societal advancement,

progressively shaping attitudes and fostering inclusivity within the

broader fabric of society.

Foreign Studies

Köllen (2021) discussed in his study entitled "Sexual Orientation

and Gender Identity in the Workplace" three interconnected factors that

affects a worker's experience in their workplace based on their sexuality:

(1) Individual perspective, where he proposed that workers perceive

others' sexual orientation based on their openness regarding their

sexuality. These presumptions of a person's sexual identity shape how

non-heterosexual individuals are treated and adapt in the workplace,

considering that heteronormative norms typically influence the

environment setting (Zetterlund, 2021, p. 14).

(2) Organizational perspective, where he explains that diversity in

the workplace creates a safe space for non-heterosexual employees.

Similar to what he discussed in the first perspective, he mentioned that

being "open" about one's sexual orientation motivates and satisfies

workers, positively impacting their work. This provides further justification

23

for organizations to establish an accepting community where individuals

are treated equally in behavior, compensation, regardless of differences

in sexual orientation. It provides a safe and inclusive working

environment.

(3) Societal perspective, he explains how sexuality is treated

outside of the workforce setting. Köllen (2021) stated that many countries

oppose homosexuality, even within a working environment. Sexuality

aside heterosexual are often regarded as "other" in many different

contexts, highlighting the difference and alienation to what was

structured to the sexual preferences by societal norms (Baddi et al.,

2019) . However, Lee (2023) expressed that inclusivity begins when

society starts to embrace these societal changes in these aspects, thus

aiming to broaden and foster an overall welcoming diversity and

acceptance of LGBT community.

In fact, such acceptances of the LGBTQ community is supported

by the article of author Amelia’s 10 Famous LGBTQ people in business

that will inspire you (2023). Business diversity drives innovation and

success, and the author wrote about the highly influential business

leaders that is known worldwide. Instances promotes Tim Crook (gay),

the CEO of the one of the largest technology brands, Apple; Anne

Richards (lesbian), CEO of Fidelity Investments; Brent Miller (gay),

24

Senior Director for LGBTQ Equality, and other business leaders such as

Inga Beale (bisexual), Martine Rothbatt (lesbian), and more. A lot of hese

highly influential persons have received such merits for their leadership

and advocacies, particularly the human rights. Successful LGBTQ

leaders place a high value on diversity, fostering environments where

everyone may succeed.

In the Hollywod Media Industry, there are examples of LGBTQA+

persons that are rising stars and influencers in their society and culture.

Caitlyn Jenner (transgender), Lauv (bisexual), Miley Cyrus (pansexual),

and Janik Bastien-Charlebois (intersex) a Canadian sociologist,

professor, and advocate for intersex rights. She teaches at the Université

du Québec à Montréal, and her areas of study include cultural

democracy, testimony, epistemology, homophobia and feminism.

All of the figures mentioned above exists within a particular work

setting, with evidences of influences that complements their fame in

society.
 25
Local Studies

The Filipino Workplace culture is renowned for many things.

Cabrera (2016) formulated in her article that our culture is usually known

for its fun dynamics such as the hospitable interactions, warmth, and

friendliness. Co-workers mostly treat each other as families because of

the long hours they spend together. Although this kind of environment

reflects on most, but not all workplaces.

Arcilla (2018) argues that LGBT+ inclusion is a journey and that

understanding the relevant local concerns and significant stakeholders is

crucial for having a true impact on long-lasting social transformation. It is

advised that the Philippines evaluate the situation and look for ways to

collaborate in order to draft legislation, inspire appropriate individuals to

speak up, and motivate companies to act. As such, the development of

workplaces in the Philippines should give precedence to the apparent

growth of business and social sectors in addition to legal developments.

This study, which was adapted from an article, focuses on programs and

developments intended to promote diversity and tolerance throughout the

continent of Asia, as officially led by Community Business’ Diversity and

Inclusion in Asia Network. Given that the majority of the statements were

deemed appropriate, it may be assumed that politicians generally

welcome members of the LGBTQ community. A local lawmaker asserts

that the LGBTQ community is entitled to the same respect and rights as
26

any other human being.

Fabillar (2019) argues in her thesis as an instance for LGBQIA+

positive acceptance that legislators for the local government have also

remarked that LGBTQ people have a strong commitment, are competent,

and have an excellent work ethic, most of them think it is okay to hire and

collaborate with LGBTQ people.

In fact, some of the open cultures in our local society is adherent

to the fact that gays are fun to be around. From the observations of the

researchers, gays are commonly known to instill a light attitude within

them. They are likely to sprout humours and have an equally positive

nature within their personality. In the Philippines, there are concrete

example of gays exhibiting these attitudes and in fact there are well-

known figures in the media like; Vice Ganda, a host from the Philippine

Variety show It’s Showtime, and Negi, a host from the show I Can See

Your Voice. Proven that they are comedians, they can be demonstrated

as an example for a catalyst of a light working environment based on

how their co-workers perceive them which shows amusement and

positivity because of the dynamics that they show on the national

television. From the article of Isla (2023):Michelle Dee, Mimiyuuuh, and

More: 10 Successful LGBT Members in the Philippines, she presents the

successful LGBTQ members ranging from the media industry, politics,

27

and business. A significant example from this context is Ms. Michelle

Dee, being bisexual herself, who is our country’s recently known beauty

queen. It is not only LGBTQ comedians who can be a postive catalyst,

but we have figures like Ms. Michelle Dee who is not only a beauty

pageant queen but also an advocate for uplifting social movement like

mental health awareness education and autism awareness. She already

has a positive impact on society regarding her advocacies, ranging from

many workplaces to another. Additionally, we have other instances;

Geraldine Roman, the first transgender person elected to the Congress

of the Philippines, Jake Zyrus, an internationally known Filipino-known

artist, Ice Seguerra, Angelina Mead King, the influential Ogie Diaz, Paolo

Ballesteros and many more.

In It’s Showtime. It is evident that Vice Ganda’s co-workers; Anne

Curtis, Vhong Navarro, Jhong Hilario, and Kim Chiu enjoys the LGBTQ+

artist-comedian’s antics and humours. As watchers, we can observe

laughter and constant exchange of jokes and humour. In fact, some

believes It’s Showtime lasted that long because of Vice Ganda’s

charismatic and comedic appeal to the watchers of ABS-CBN. This, in

general, supports the influences of the members belonging to the

LGBTQA+ spectrum and that they serve as a catalyst or an

encouragement to having a positive and light working environment.

28

Synthesis

Following the understanding of different perspectives based on

review of related literature and studies, these highlight the direct impacts

it can make on the assumptions made about sexual orientation in the

workplace, and thus, influencing how individuals are treated. As society

begins to recognize the belongingness of LGBTQIA+ individuals as part

of the community, opportunities that encourage growth and explore the

diverse influence of non-heterosexual individuals in creating a supportive

work environment are acknowledged within. The way people are

perceived and treated based on their sexuality can significantly affect

their relationships with coworkers, employers, and customers (Williams

et al., 2022, p. 5).

Creating an environment that values diversity and embraces

openness about sexual orientation is key to promote a well-positive and

inclusive workplace dynamics, essentially benefiting both individuals and

organizations. These projected workplace dynamics amongst the

workmates within an existing work environment is substantial to the

development of perceptions towards the positive effect of having an

LGBTQA+ workmate around. Within examples observed by the

researchers in our real society, the LGBTQA+ community members have

the ability to be a catalyst of a light working environment amongst

29

workplaces.

There may be existing examples from places in the world that

promote the favourableness of having an LGBTQA+ workmates in the

offices, ont only that, but there are proven evidences of these famous

LGBTQIA+ individuals that they are capable of influencing their society.

In fact, they can be highly influential persons from the contexts of

business, politics, and entertainment.

As the researchers synthesize, there should be the observable

balance between the distinctions of each LGBTQA+ oriented individual

and the workplace harmony upon acquiring the perceptions of those

working together under the same workplace, regardless of where among

the LGBTQA+ spectrum an individual orients themselves upon.

 30
Bibliographies

FOREIGN STUDIES

Bagdi, Himanshu & Sharma, Latika. (2019). ACCEPTANCE OF

LGBT AT WORKPLACE. Retrieved from

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/349454817_ACCEPTANC

E_OF_LGBT_AT_WORKPLACE

Köllen, T. (2021). Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in the

Workplace. Retrieved from

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Thomas-Koellen/publication/352

642264_Sexual_Orientation_and_Gender_Identity_in_the_Workplac

e/links/60d19b34458515dc179cdd97/Sexual-Orientation-and-

Gender-Identity-in-the-Workplace.pdf

Lee, C (2023). Coming out in the university workplace: A case

study of LGBTQ + staff visibility. High Educ 85, 1181–1199

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10734-022-00884-y
LOCAL STUDIES
31
Arcilla, T. (2018) Progressing LGBTQ+ Inclusion in the Philippine

Workplace.

Article Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/progressing-lgbt-inclusion-

philippine-workplace-tina-arcilla

Cabrera, A. (2017) The Filipino Workplace Culture. An article retrieved

from

https://peopledynamics.co/filipino-workplace-culture/

FOREIGN LITERATURE

Salter, N.P. and Sasso, T. (2022), "The positive experiences

associated with coming out at work", Equality, Diversity and Inclusion,

Vol. 41 No. 2, pp. 224-240. https://doi.org/10.1108/EDI-11-2020-0322

Business Inquirer (2021, January). “What does ‘catalyst’ refer to in the work

environment?” AFP Relaxnews Corporate Article retrieved from Inquirer.net

Website

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environment
LOCAL LITERATURE
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Blasius, M. and Chu, R. (2021) More Tomboy, More Bakla Than

We Admit : Insights Into Sexual and Gender Diversity in Philippine

Culture, History, and Politics"

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Garcia N.J (2021) "Aura: The Gay Theme in Philippine Fiction" in

English (2012)

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Philippine Fictions in English" Rupkatha Journal on

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DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v9n2.30 Full Text:

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ADDITIONAL LITERATURE AND STUDIES
33
HRC Foundation. The Human Rights Campaign. Newsletter Report

source

https://www.hrc.org/resources/coming-out-at-work

PWC. Out to Succeed: Realizing the Full Potential of your LGBT+ Talent.

Service Publication

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succeed.html

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Orientation Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace: A Qualitative

Study of LGB Inclusion in a UK Public Sector Organisation. The

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https://doi.org/10.46743/2160-3715/2022.4461
 34
CHAPTER 3

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This chapter contains the different methods employed by the

researchers in conducting the study which includes the research design,

population and sampling, respondents of the study, instrumentation,

validation of instruments, the procedures used to gather data, and the

accurate statistical treatment of the observed data.

Research Design

This research will use a phenomenological approach to a

qualitative study. Neubauer (2019) discussed that phenomenology is a

technique for understanding the nature of events by exploring the different

experiences of those involved in a particular phenomenon through in-

depth observation. This focuses on understanding real-world problems

through deeper investigations into various human behaviors,

involvements, and perceptions of individuals, recognizing how these

factors affect situations and the nature of the events, and providing a deep

understanding of specific events from the perspectives of the people

 35
involved. This allows for a new understanding of events by exploring

diverse experiences.

This research design will be used by the researchers to investigate

the phenomenon of how members of the LGBTQIA+ community act as the

catalyst for a light and comfortable working environment, promoting fair

and healthy professional relationships with their coworkers and within their

workplace overall. This study aims to provide objective insights and results

through subjective human experiences.

Population and Sampling

The researchers uses judgment sampling for the study. The

judgment sampling gives way for the researches to collect the perceptions

of the individuals whose role in the office serves as a workmate of the

LGBTQIA+ community member.

Purposive sampling helps the researchers to filter out the non-

relevant responses that do not fit into the context of the study. It also

contributes to decreasing the margin of error in data collection because

the data sources are a close fit to the context of the research. (Obilor,

2023)
 36
Judgment sampling, also called purposive sampling, gives the

opportunity for the researchers to focus on this subgroup of sample

participants because the study intends to concentrate around the

perceptions of these individuals. The study aims to collect the required

results through knowing the influence of their LGBTQIA+ workmate in

their shared workplace setting and to know how the LGBTQIA+ worker

serve as a catalyst into achieving a positive working environment. Thus

the researchers shall choose a type of working environment that includes

individuals who is most likely open to the public society regarding their

sexuality as an LGBTQIA+ and deliberately choose workmates who is

most likely to provide knowledge to fill the gaps of the present study.

Participants of the Study

The respondents in this study were the 10 deliberately selected co-

workers of the people who identify as an LGBTQIA+ within a specific

workplace professional setting; the offices as an instance. The

researchers selected the participants through judgment sampling method.

 37
Research Instrument

The instrument used in this study was a researcher – made semi-

structured interview questions to gather data about the influences of the

LGBT+ in the office as the catalyst of a light working environment. The

necessities to create an effective data gathering instrument were taken

into consideration when preparing the interview questions. The

researchers created the interview questions based on the study’s

objectives, research readings related literature and published studies

relevant to the study. Additionally, the researchers decides to formulate it

into semi-structured in order to give allowance for follow-up questions in

which the respondents can give a natural response to the researcher

along the interview process. This gives way for the researchers to explore

more about the various influences of the LGBTQA+ individual from the

perception of the respondent.

The researchers scrutinized all possible concepts and ideas that

might have been included in the materials, giving careful consideration to

their relevance, validity, and accuracy. The instrument was validated by

the authorities.
 38
Validation of the Instrument

In ensuring the reliability and validity of the research instrument,

the interview questions were subjected to a validation process. The

validation procedure involved a thorough examination of the questions'

clarity, relevance, and appropriateness for the study's objectives.

Additionally, the questions were reviewed by the research

instructor to ensure their alignment with the research design and

methodology. Any ambiguities or inconsistencies identified during this

validation process were addressed and polished accordingly. This process

helps maintain the quality standards of the study and enhances the validity

of the collected data.

 39
Data Gathering Procedure

The researchers will first prepare a letter of request to conduct the

study followed by the construction of a set of questions to be conducted as

an interview, which should be validated by the following authorities,

namely; Ms. Danica Malapaya, the subject teacher of Practical Research

1 and the thesis advisor for Grade 11, and the school authorities of

UPHSD to be distributed to the respondents. The next procedure includes

conducting the interview questions in the selected study locale. After

explaining the ethical procedures and the significant contribution of their

responses to their study, the researcher will clarify the terms to the

respondents and ask them to answer objectively as subjects of the study.

After gathering the qualitative data, the researcher will collect the tallied

data for interpretation. Based on the results, the researchers will come up

with conclusions and recommendations for the study.