AROUND 3,000 women took to the streets on March 8, 2025, to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) and advocate for gender equality.
Participants from various backgrounds marched from Roxas Freedom Park to Rizal Park, where a short program was held. Women’s organizations and advocacy groups led discussions on women’s rights and empowerment.
Lorna Mandin, chief of the Integrated Gender Development Division (IGDD), emphasized that the event goes beyond celebration—it serves as a platform to raise awareness and promote gender equality.
“Sa mga babae, aduna ta’y katungod isip tawo ug maayo nga ma-realize nato na kay simbako kita maabuso, aduna ta’y katungod para magreklamo (Women have rights as human beings, and it’s important that we realize this. If, God forbid, we experience abuse, we have the right to speak up),” she said in an interview with the City Information Office (CIO).
Protest
On the same day, Gabriela-Southern Mindanao Region (SMR), Gabriela Women's Party SMR, Gabriela-Youth Davao, Sabokahan Unity of Lumad Women, and other progressive groups gathered at Roxas Freedom Park to mark the occasion with a protest.
Rose Hayahay, secretary-general of Gabriela-SMR, called on women struggling under the current administration to continue organizing.
“As we fight for women’s rights to be respected, we know that we will never truly be liberated from abuse and repression until we liberate our country from these political dynasties and puppets of US imperialism,” she said.
The protest ended with a symbolic tearing of receipts listing the soaring prices of basic goods, highlighting the economic hardships affecting women and other vulnerable sectors.
Fair wages, job security
The Nonoy Librado Development Foundation, Inc. also marked the occasion by addressing the persistent challenges women face despite existing laws, including job insecurity, wage inequality, overwork, and lack of social protection.
"Despite these daily struggles, women workers remain fearless in defending their rights. The militant spirit of Clara Zetkin, Gabriela Silang, and Lorena Barros lives on in every working woman who continues the fight for justice, peace, and decent work," the organization said.
VP Sara's call
Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte, in her Women’s Day message, underscored the role of women in leadership and nation-building. She also stressed the need to combat gender-based violence and human trafficking.
“Let us build a future where no woman fears for her safety, where every girl can pursue her dreams without fear of violence, and where equality is not just a goal, but a lived reality,” she said. RGP
