TACLOBAN CITY – Over 300 women from across this city gathered at RTR Plaza for #YEDDANCE Zumba, an International Women’s Day event organized by Tingog party-list to promote health, empowerment, and gender equality.
The event united women of all ages, from senior citizens to community leaders and expectant mothers, underscoring the need for inclusive advocacy. Alongside the Zumba session, the celebration featured health talks and discussions on women’s challenges, highlighting the role of grassroots efforts in complementing policies to uplift and protect women.
Despite progress, Filipino women still face barriers to economic security, workplace protections, and safety from violence. In response, Tingog party-list has championed key legislative measures, including 105-Day Expanded Maternity Leave Law (RA 11210) – Extends paid leave for working mothers; Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313) – Strengthens protections against harassment; and Expanded Solo Parents’ Welfare Act (RA 11861) – Provides additional support for solo mothers.
Beyond these laws, Tingog is pushing for further reforms, namely, on House Bill No. 5740 – Increasing women’s recruitment quota in law enforcement; House Bill No. 2714 – Establishing a National Sex Offender Registry; and House Bill No. 1950 – Mandating infant-friendly spaces in public facilities.
Tingog Rep. Jude Acidre stressed the need for continuous advocacy, saying, “Women’s strength drives progress, but challenges persist. Through legislation and community action, we must protect and uplift women.”
Rep. Yedda Romualdez echoed this, stating, “The fight for gender equality goes beyond policies—it’s about ensuring every woman is seen, heard, and empowered.”
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
