MANILA, Philippines — In celebration of International Women’s Day and National Women’s Month, Vice President Sara Duterte has called for unity among government agencies, the private sector, civil society and the citizenry in fighting abuses and discrimination against women.
In a video message posted on her Facebook account, Duterte said that while Filipino women have come a long way and are now leading in various fields, gender-based abuses and discrimination are still prevalent in the country.
“Across all sectors, Filipino women are at the forefront of change – leading in governance, driving innovation and strengthening communities. Our resilience and contributions shape a more inclusive and progressive society,” Duterte said.
“Yet, we cannot ignore the alarming reality that violence against women and children and human trafficking continue to threaten the safety and dignity of many. From domestic abuse to online exploitation and trafficking, gender-based violence remains a persistent barrier to women’s empowerment,” she added.
Duterte said the fight for women’s rights is not just about closing the economic and political gaps between sexes but also about “ensuring that every woman and child is protected, heard and allowed to thrive.”
“Let us work together to strengthen our laws, improve access to justice, support survivors and challenge the deeply rooted norms that enable violence,” Duterte said.
The Vice President said the fight to break the “cycle of abuse and exploitation” against women needs the collective efforts of the government, private institutions, civil society and individuals.
“Together, 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,” Duterte said.
Meanwhile, in a statement on their Facebook page, teachers group Congress of Teachers/Educators for Nationalism and Democracy (CONTEND) paid tribute to revolutionary women who fought for Philippine liberation and for the welfare of the Filipino women working class.
“From Gabriela Silang to Gregoria de Jesus, Kumander Liwayway to Recca Monte, the Philippines possesses no scarcity of brave women to inspire younger generations of Filipinos,” the group said.
“This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the broad masses of working women who continuously fight against the assaults of macho-feudal society,” they said.
The group cited the current problems that Filipino women, especially the working class, face, such as low salaries and gender-based harassment.
“The Philippines remains the only country in the world without divorce. Domestic workers are uncompensated and overworked. The majority of teachers struggle with low pay, oversized class sizes and inadequate facilities in classrooms. Queer women face the threat of harassment and the lack of legal protections,” CONTEND said.
“We must shun the current system, which promises the enrichment of only a few women should they be willing to participate in the political suppression of the Filipino people. We must work to create a society where all women are free, and all Filipinos are free,” it added.