Women’s groups call for scrapping of VAT

CEBU, Philippines — Women’s groups in Cebu marked the International Women’s Day on Sunday, March 8, with a call to scrap value added tax (VAT) on basic services and oppose further privatization of public spaces and services.

In a statement, GABRIELA Cebu spokesperson Cleisteil Cimafranca said the 12 percent VAT on essential services such as electricity, water, and healthcare continues to burden ordinary Filipinos, even as public funds are allegedly diverted to questionable initiatives, including so-called “ghost projects” and confidential allocations.

The group also raised concerns over recent controversies involving flood control funds, noting that women in poor and working communities often bear the heaviest burden when public resources are misused.

“Women are among those most severely affected in these crises—often bearing the responsibility of protecting children, caring for the sick and elderly, securing food and water, and rebuilding households in the aftermath of floods and disasters,” Cimafranca said.

The group likewise opposed the privatization of public spaces such as the Carbon Public Market, stressing that public markets serve as vital lifelines for vendors and ordinary consumers.

Meanwhile, the Cebu Port Authority (CPA) granted free terminal fee access to all women passengers on March 8 as part of its “Libre ni Juana” program in celebration of National Women’s Month 2026.

At a barangay event in Barangay Tisa, Gender and Development (GAD) focal person Jenny Nudalo reminded mothers to prioritize their children’s safety during the parade and Zumba fitness activities.

“Ayaw ninyo isalig ang inyong mga anak sa bisan kinsa kay lisud na madisgrasya inyong mga anak,” Nudalo told women participants, stressing the importance of vigilance.

The event featured a parade, Zumba sessions, and other activities aimed at celebrating women’s contributions while promoting gender equality and public welfare reforms.

GABRIELA Cebu also reiterated that the fight for women’s rights is inseparable from the broader struggle against exploitation, privatization, and imperialist policies, calling for solidarity among women and communities both locally and globally.

The Safe Spaces Movement also urged women, workers, and students to stand in solidarity with people in Iran.

“We must wage a collective struggle for a world where safety is a right, not a privilege of the elite,” the group said. (CEBU NEWS)