Thousands of women are expected to take to the streets on March 8 to celebrate the International Women’s Day, according to a new and biggest formation of various major women’s organizations.
Martsa ng Kababaihan conveners said that at least 15,000 women from all walks of life are challenged to unite in a show of force not only to celebrate the gains of women in history but to heed the call to actively participate in the political struggle of the country.
Under the call: “A woman’s place is in the struggle! Oust Gloria!”-the mobilization will assemble at the Makati Fire Station at 2:30 in the afternoon, will march along Ayala Avenue and will hold program at the Ninoy Aquino shrine.
In a statement, the group demanded the ouster of Ms. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo “for the sake of our millions of women and their families whose quality of life has deteriorated over the years as a result of her insensitive, anti-women, anti-poor policies and programs.”
The group likewise stressed that the most fundamental needs and grievances of the basic masses have been sacrificed by a presidency more interested in ensuring its political survival.
March 8 is celebrated in many countries as International Women’s Day.
“However, Filipino women have little reason to celebrate,” said Freedom from Debt Coalition (FDC) president and Laban ng Masa - Kababaihan organizer Ana Maria R. Nemenzo, adding: “It is ironic that under a woman president, women have been denied access to reproductive health services so vital to their health and lives.”
Nemenzo also stated that contrary to previous mass mobilizations, said scheduled women’s march will be colorful, creative, fun, yet political.
“There will be no speeches. This is a festive show of force of women who want genuine political, economic and social change, and we will express this through poetry, songs, and dances,” Nemenzo said.
Aside from Laban ng Masa - Kababaihan, other groups participating in the mobilization include: Bangon Pilipinas! - Women, Black & White Movement, Forces of the United Middle Class, GABRIELA, Gabriela Women’s Party, Global Call to Action against Poverty (GCAP) - Philippines, KMLG, NCCV, OFW Family Club, Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino, Welga ng Kababaihan, Women March, and WomenSpeak.
Laban ng Masa - Kababaihan
Reference: Ana Maria R. Nemenzo
Tel Nos: +632-9246399, +632-9211985