Confront inequalities faced by women – President Marcos

MANILA, Philippines — Lamenting that inequalities and disparities involving women still persist, President Marcos yesterday called on Filipinos to help in attaining a more inclusive society.

In his message on the observance of International Women’s Day, Marcos acknowledged the invaluable role that women play in society that drives progress.

“In an age marked by rapid growth and transformation, it is imperative for the global community to honor the incalculable worth of women’s contributions across all facets of society and sustain the gains that have emerged from their countless struggles and sacrifices,” he said.

He also called for an end to the violence and discrimination continuously faced by women.

“Yet, within our relentless pursuit of progress, we must confront the inequalities and disparities that still persist. By ending gender-based violence,
 discrimination and biases that cast shadows over the realization of women’s dreams, we actively engage in a mission that nurtures equity, inclusion and empowerment,” Marcos said.

“Through our collective efforts, have faith that we will bring about a kind of change that stands the test of time, resonates across borders and reverberates in the core of our societies,” he said.

“Always remember that, by amplifying the voices of women, championing their rights and reinforcing their fundamental freedom, we, in turn, elevate entire communities and nations, propelling ourselves towards a stronger, more equitable and more progressive world for all,” he said.

In a separate message on the celebration of the National Women’s Month this March, Marcos urged Filipinos to embrace their civic and moral obligation to make sure that “every Juana feels free and safe to use her voice with courage and compassion.”

“This annual commemoration is also a salient reminder of the paths yet unchartered, especially for the protection of women in the marginalized communities,” he said.

For her part, Vice President Sara Duterte on Friday gave tribute to Filipino women as she called for their protection against violence and the supposed “rotten” ideologies of the New People’s Army.

In a video message posted on Facebook in celebration of International Women’s Day, Duterte said the occasion is a great opportunity to highlight the contribution of women in the country’s progress.

At the same time, Duterte said International Women’s Day as well as National Women’s Month are also opportunities to tackle and address the plights and challenges that women are facing, including violence and tragedies in their families.

Senate President Pro-Tempore Loren Legarda lauded the role of women in nation-building, as she highlighted the pro-women legislation passed in Congress to protect women from abuse and to advance their rights.

“We have consistently upheld policies and cultural practices that prioritize women’s rights and recognize their role in nation-building,” Legarda said, citing the Magna Carta of Women, the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children Act, Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act and the Domestic Workers Act.

The senator said she filed a bill in the Senate – the proposed Unpaid Care Workers Welfare Act, which seeks to assist home caregivers and lighten the household work imposed on women. — Michael Punongbayan, Elizabeth Marcelo, Janvic Mateo, Rudy Santos, Emmanuel Tupas, Marc Jayson Cayabyab