Robie Ann Garcia Solacito, appointed in October 2025 as the first LGBTQ member to serve as full-fledged provincial prosecutor of Sultan Kudarat, said her identity helped her earn respect in her role.
Solacito, who identifies as between cisgender and transgender, has worked as a prosecutor in the Department of Justice for 13 years. She specializes in laws on women and children and serves as a faculty member at Notre Dame of Marbel University’s College of Law. She also manages the forensics course for the DOJ-National Prosecution Service special project division’s pool of trainers.
She told The STAR that she has faced no stereotyping or prejudice in her work. “I encounter people from all walks of life, and they associate themselves with me and feel comfortable talking to me,” she said. Solacito added that she appreciates different perspectives and speaks to people regardless of identity as long as there is respect.
The DOJ included Solacito in its “DOJ Pride” series for June. She said an inclusive workplace allows employees to feel valued. Solacito noted she does not agree with same-sex marriage but favors civil unions for same-sex couples.