Diversity and inclusion as drivers of enter-’PRISE’

NOT MERELY TOKEN Prise is aimed at enhancing firms’ capacity to adopt inclusive policies. —Photo from Philippine LGBT Chamber of Commerce/FACEBOOK

Since its inception eight years ago, the Philippine LGBT Chamber of Commerce or PLCC has been working toward making diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression (SOGIE) more than just token programs in the workplace.

Through continual research and education, PLCC is pushing for these two to become part of businesses’ DNA through their respective company policies.

Last May 8, PLCC launched in Taguig City another initiative designed to help businesses—the Pride Seal of Excellence (Prise), which serves as “Asia’s foremost SOGIE-based DEI certification system” for privately owned, for-profit organizations that are operating in the Philippines, irrespective of size or sector.

According to PLCC chair Ronn Astillas, Prise aims to “enhance enterprises’ capacity to adopt inclusive policies and programs, thereby fostering a more equitable workplace environment.”

To be eligible to receive a Prise, businesses need to deliver on predefined criteria, which PLCC will be launching in the next few months.

These criteria will look at policy direction, or the clear articulation of SOGIE-based DEI through business strategies and principles; mechanisms that allow for strong LGBTQ+ representation within the organization; and foundational care, or core interventions that uphold LGBTQ+ employees’ rights and security at work

Also to be considered are outreach and engagement programs that promote inclusivity among external stakeholders; and information and education efforts that create awareness and foster understanding of SOGIE-based DEI.

In terms of the benefits that Prise offers, businesses need only remember the acronym RISE.

Reputation. Prise is designed to contribute to an enterprise’s positive brand image, as it is proof of its commitment to diversity and inclusion, making it more attractive to a broader audience, which includes the LGBTQ+ community and its allies.

Innovation. Going through the Prise Certification will infuse innovation and creativity into a business’ brand. “As we all know, diverse teams more often than not bring different perspectives and ideas. It fosters innovation and creativity within the company,” says Astillas.

Sales. For any business, the bottom-line impact is always the top consideration for any certification, and according to Astillas, PRISE will definitely pave the way for market expansion.

“The Pink Economy has been steadily growing over the years, and by recognizing the power of the pink peso, businesses can tap into a sizable and underserved market, increasing their customer base and in essence affecting bottom line and revenue potential,” he adds.

Engagement. Ultimately, Prise can help a brand increase loyalty among its employees and customers, and attract top talent across all demographics, which helps in establishing a diverse, inclusive, and skilled workforce.

The certification process will be administered by an independent audit and evaluation team to ensure impartiality and integrity. With its growing membership, PLCC’s Prise is one way for the chamber to continue to build its institutional partnerships, too, and shape a “DEI-cosystem” that will serve as their foundation for years to come. —CONTRIBUTED