Women’s group supports BOPK

CEBU, Philippines -  A women’s group has declared its support to the Bando Osmeña Pundok Kauswagan by signing a covenant with the political group led by former congressman Tomas Osmeña.

The Kalipunan Ng Mga Liping Pilipina (KALIPI) and BOPK committed to promote and advance the total well-being of all women in the City of Cebu. The signing of the covenant was made in line with the Women’s Month celebration.

“We recognize the meaningful participation and equitable representation of women in decision and policy-making processes in the City Government to fully realize their role as key partners in development,” read the mutual covenant signed yesterday.

The event was attended by all BOPK north and south candidates, saying that all of them believe “that good governance enhances the capacities of women to contribute to and benefit from development” of the city.

Another agreed provision was to protect the rights of every women worker including “the right to self-organization, decent work, just and humane working conditions, and access to social protection.”

All parties have agreed to promote the rights of women “to humane and adequate housing and ensure that their concerns are heard and settlements are made before they are removed permanently from their homes.”

They also expressed their support on the current efforts of all non-government organizations and people’s organizations to possibly eliminate all forms of violence against women and children.

“We will formulate and adopt new legislations in the City Council that promote the women’s agenda of social, political and economic empowerment, gender equality and the fulfillment of women’s human rights,” read the mutual covenant.

City Councilor Alvin Dizon said all parties have also agreed to stop “inhumane demolitions that are affecting women and children.”

Dizon said there was a declaration of commitment and support to all the BOPK candidates by the Kalipi yesterday.

 “We, the Cebu City Kalipi and Women Leaders, declare our strongest and unqualified support to the Bando Osmeña Pundok Kauswagan through its standard bearer Mayor Tommy Osmeña, Vice Mayor Nestor Archival, the 2 District Representatives Raul del Mar (Cebu City 1st District) and Rodrigo “Bebot” Abellanosa (Cebu City 2nd District), and the 16 Councilors representing both the North and South Districts,” read the commitment of the group.

Kalipi said the political party should help them in addressing “social ills-illegal drug trade, serious traffic congestion, garbage collection, fiscal mismanagement, and lack of transparency and accountability.” — (FREEMAN)