Same-sex couple Kathleen Aguero and Loretta Pangelinan’s fight for equality and the right to marry ended successfully today when Chief Federal Court Judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood ruled the ban unconstitutional – allowing for same-sex marriages on Guam.
Judge Tydingco-Gatewood cited the previous decision made by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in her ruling, which has jurisdiction over Guam saying that Guam’s actions denying marriage rights to same-sex couples were unconstitutional.
Embracing one another following the victorious and historical ruling, the couple tearfully expressed their appreciation to family and friends who supported them throughout their ordeal.
The couple challenged the “marriage ban” following an attempt to obtain a marriage license on Guam in April. They were denied an application by the Department of Public Health and Social Services who is responsible for issuing applications for marriage license.
A written opinion is expected Monday, June 8, 2015 and the ruling will take effect the following day.
Aguero told reporters that they shouldn’t have had to fight this battle, but expressed “I mean, its love and love must win, so we’re just grateful.”
The couple say they plan to immediately apply for their marriage license as soon as the ruling takes effect.
Source (http://www.guampdn.com)