Alter to empower

For one month every year, the Philippines commemorates women’s rights. The country has been
celebrating women’s month since it was proclaimed in 1988. It is celebrated from the first to the last day
of March. Although women in the country continue to face widespread prejudice, it is pleasing to see
that the young have intentions of altering the people's accustomed attitude, from a society full of
discrimination against women; to a country empowering its women.

Inequity towards women was normalized for the longest time. Women in the Philippines face
various forms of discrimination, ranging from violence, harassment, and economic disadvantage, to
social exclusion and political marginalization. But with the rise of social media and greater access to
information, young people are becoming more aware of gender inequality and are actively working
towards creating a more equal society.

Tied with the mindset of women being weak, they were always the subject of violence. Whether
it be physical or verbal, it’s prevalent even in the streets. According to the Philippine Commission on
Women, one in four women in the country experiences physical violence at some point in their lives.

Women are deemed of incapabilities when it comes to employment, often relegated to low-
paying jobs, and are underrepresented in leadership positions and decision-making roles. In addition,
women in the Philippines are underrepresented in politics, with only 28% of elected officials in the
country being women. This political underrepresentation limits women's ability to influence policy and
advocate for their rights, and perpetuates their marginalization in society.

Social discrimination against women is also common in the Philippines, with cultural norms that
limit women's choices and opportunities. In the past, women were treated as mere housekeepers.
Women are often expected to prioritize their roles as wives and mothers, and are discouraged from
pursuing education and careers. This social pressure can limit women's access to education and job
opportunities, and can reinforce their economic disadvantage.

Through and after generations of society’s unfair perception of women, the youth is slowly but
surely opening the eyes of the belittling society. Young people are using social media platforms to raise
awareness about women's rights and to challenge gender stereotypes and discrimination. They are also
participating in rallies and protests to demand policy changes that support women's empowerment.

It is evident in the country how the youth is slowly changing the old times and absurd mentality.
The youth of the Philippines is driving positive change in society by working towards women's
empowerment. They are advocating for gender equality. This is an encouraging trend that signals a
brighter future for the country, where women are fully empowered to reach their full potential. It is
essential to continue supporting the efforts of the youth in altering the country into a society that values
and empowers women.