Women lawmakers line up activities for Women's Month

MANILA, Philippines - Women lawmakers have lined up various activities this week, including free breast examination and livelihood training at the House of Representatives, in line with the celebration of the Women’s Month.

With the theme, “Kababaihan: Nagtataguyod ng Kakayanan at Kabuhayan Tungo sa Kaunlaran,” this year’s celebration highlights the critical role of women in nation-building and poverty reduction, said Las Piñas City Rep. Cynthia Villar.

The lady legislators held a medical mission yesterday at the North Wing Lobby of the Batasan Pambansa in Quezon City, headed by Reps. Janet Garin of Iloilo and Mitz Cajayon of Caloocan who offered free ear piercing for girls and distributed free reading glasses.

An exhibit, featuring the lady legislators’ advocacies for women’s livelihood and the seven acts of kindness to pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, was recently opened at the House of Representatives.

The Gabriela Women’s Party also showcased relevant information and materials about violence against women and women’s health.

Women from nearby barangays and staff of the House of Representatives were likewise trained on fashion accessories and jewelry making.

“We have included livelihood training in our activities to promote women’s economic empowerment and rights through entrepreneurship,” said Villar, who is also the Lady Legislators’ president.

Villar’s office, in partnership with the Cervical Cancer Prevention Network Program (CECAP), also held a cancer awareness campaign and forum, with free breast examination to women.

Villar said positive eligible cases would be treated with cryotherapy while other positive cases that are untreatable would be referred to hospitals.

Another medical mission and feeding program would be held today at the Brgy. Batasan Hills covered court in Quezon City.

The Philippine Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine and New Skills of the Department of Trade and Industry would also render free bone screening on March 30.

“With these activities, we hope to raise more awareness on the plight of women especially the victims of poverty, social discrimination, domestic and all forms of abuse,” Villar said.