MANILA, Philippines - GABRIELA Rep Liza Maza was not surprised when television host and talent manager Boy Abunda agreed to appear in political ads endorsing her bid for the Senate.

?He (Abunda) shares affinity with women?s rights. He knows that when we get representation in Senate, lesbians and gays will be a step closer to their goal,? said Maza in an interview.

She explained that women share a common cause with lesbians and gays who are seeking a bigger voice in the country?s lawmaking bodies long dominated by males. She said just like women, lesbians and gays face abuse and discrimination in society.

Maza also said Gabriela was the first to condemn the Commission on Elections? decision rejecting the petition of Ang Ladlad Party to register as a party-list group representing the Filipino lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

?This is a clear violation of human rights, especially from marginalized sectors, to be involved in the political processes. It is reflective of the prevailing culture where homophobia and discrimination prevails,? she said.

After being shunned from having their own voice in Congress, Maza said Abunda offered to make a stronger pitch for her in the campaign for free.