TAIPEI: Taiwan’s parliament has legalized same-sex marriage following a vote on Friday becoming the first in Asia to do so, media reports said.

The country’s constitutional court had in 2017, ruled that same-sex couples can legally marry.

The parliament was given a two-year deadline to pass the changes by 24 May.

Lawmakers of the country debated three different bills with an aim to legalize same-sex unions such as the government’s bill.

The two other bills, which were submitted by conservative lawmakers, mention partnerships as “same-sex family relationships” or “same-sex unions” rather than terming “marriages”.

Scores of gay rights supporters gathered in Taipei to await the landmark ruling. (Agencies)