Fostering a better society with women in nation building
WOMEN have always been an essential part of society, serving as the light not only of their families, but also of their companies, communities and countries.
This March 2024, the Philippines celebrates Women’s Month with the theme, “Lipunang patas sa bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng kababaihan, patutunayan (Equality in society in the new Philippines: Proving women’s capability).”
The theme expresses the advocacy of creating equal opportunities for men and women, continuously curbing the gender disparity that has been systemically present.
It also shows a commitment to harness the potential of women and celebrate their achievements.
Overall, this celebration commemorates the contributions of women in the society and tackles the issues regarding domestic violence and gender inequality.
The celebration also aims to inspire other sectors of the society to embrace women and include diversity and equality in their structural frameworks.
In light of this, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) has arranged several activities to foster the contribution of women in nation building.
Last March 8 – which is also celebrated as International Women’s day – PCW collaborated with SM Supermalls and United Nations Women in an event themed, “Invest in women: Accelerate progress.”
The event features talks from inspirational female leaders and speakers who talked about poverty and aspects of society such as financing and strengthening institutions in a gendered lense.
PCW hashtags: #JuanaSays, #WEcanbeEquALL
#JuanaSays is an initiative that gives voices to women in various sectors, allowing them to tell their stories and inspire other people to follow in their footsteps. This year, the focal sector is financing. This included talks about poverty, education, technology, sustainable infrastructure and social protection.
The “WE” in “WEcanbeEquALL” stands for “Women and everyone” and “Women’s Empowerment.” The former indicates that advocating for gender equality is a collective action that requires the collaboration of everyone, while the latter indicates the goal that agencies should aspire this women’s Month.
This hashtag serves as a banner and flag for the entire celebration, encouraging every member of the society to participate and show dedication to foster gender equality.
Several Government Agencies have joined this cause, each celebrating the power of women in their own ways.
Other sectors of the government that have expressed solidarity during Women’s Month are the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), The Philippine National Police, The Procurement Service - Department of Budget and Management (PS-DBM) and the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center.
“Behind the steering wheel and on the road, the capabilities of women are limitless. [LTFRB] salutes the contribution of women in the transportation sector. They truly are heroes on the road that we should recognize and praise,” LTFRB says in Filipino at its official website.
“PS-DBM, through its Gender and Development Focal Point System, ensures that the women of its workforce are given equitable opportunities that enable them to showcase and harness their full potential towards national growth and development. #WEcanbeEquaLL,” PS-DBM states.
“The vision extends to government agencies and institutions incorporating gender mainstreaming in the bureaucracy, men joining the cause for equality, and establishing a legal framework that supports the protection of marginalized groups of women, including te girl child, persons with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, Muslims, and those with diverse Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression,” PPP Center says.
Local government units (LGU) like the Municipality of Culion, Palawan; Bacoor, Cavite; San Antonio, Zambales and San Pedro, Laguna.
“The government of Bacoor joins in solidarity on this historic day for women. Let us remember their important roles in this country. We thank and salute you!” Bacoor LGU posts on its official website.
Women’s Month is ultimately a celebration working together and creating a society that benefits not only women, but everyone; regardless of gender.
PCW says: “Together, we say, women can and women will!. Let’s redefine gender narratives by organizing interactive activities that open discussions about gender equality, challenge stereotypes, and promote cultural shifts.”
Ultimately, women’s month is about enpowering women and ensuring that all individuals are given equal opportunities and rights, regardless of gender