“We should celebrate and protect all women of color and look beyond what the eyes can see. Women by birth or by heart should be given equal rights, respect and opportunity” Mr. Pascua – Homelife Supervisor said in his opening remarks.

The Haven for Women (HFW) opens the celebration of National Women’s Month with the theme “WE for gender equality and inclusive society” on March 2, 2023 at HFW social hall.

The National Women’s Month aims to raise awareness of gender equality and women’s empowerment (GEWE) in the Philippines.

The program started with the kick-off parade of the residents and staff around the compound of Haven for Women and Marilac Hills showcasing the Advocacy Posters created by the residents during the Women’s Month Poster Making contest on March 1, 2023.

One participant explained that she purposely exchanged the colors of the gender signs to signify that there are men who are women inside and there are women who are men inside. She further emphasize that she, a member of the LGBTQ+ community can do what is expected from a male and should be respected as one.

The one Billion Rising was re-launched as part of the celebration where all staff and residents actively participated in the dance number to show support for women’s empowerment and end violence against women.

Haven for Women’s month-long celebration includes a lecture on the Magna Carta of Women, Peryahan sa Haven for Women, Yoga sessions, cervical cancer screening, an Educational trip for selected residents and Culminating Activity. ###