Name: Arlen Sigrid L.

Rabino
Grade 12-STEM St. Erasmus

THE POWER OF PINAYS

In spite of colonization and its consequences, powerful and strong women were prominent figures
throughout Philippine history, from the warrior princess, Urduja in pre-colonial times, to Gabriela
Silang, a revolutionary leader of an Ilocano movement for independence from Spain who took the role
of commander of the rebel troops after the assassination of her husband, Diego Silang, to the first
woman president of the country, Corazon Aquino, who came into power after the assassination of her
husband, Benigno Aquino Jr., that brought an end to the dictatorial regime of Ferdinand Marcos. And
the list continues as history is being written.

As a cultural worker trying with the objective in educating individuals on the contributions and
importance that women have in the society of the Philippines, there are 5 relevant programs that I
would like to introduce. Some of them will include women’s rights as human rights, women in labour
force, a women empowerment program, gender equality program, and a program to teach about the
history of Philippine women and their society.

First and foremost, the women’s rights as human rights. The early part of this century the right of
woman to receive an education, to obtain paid employment, to enter profession, to vote and to stand for
election were all highly contested issues. In addition, women in many parts of the world still face
multiple obstacles in enjoying these rights. This program would help boost some of the other projects.
This can be used as the channel of our voice as a women, to let the whole world know our rights.

Secondly, the women in labour force. Right to work and rights to work. From a gender
perspective, The meaning of work would be change to include unpaid work at home, on the family
farm, and elsewhere work that is currently not valued by society. A redefinition of work would
recognize women’s productive and enable women to Profitably engage in home-based work. A fresh
perspective would change the manner.

Subsequently, the women empowerment program. This will ensure that women have their own
money. This will reduce the over dependence on their male counterparts in feeding the family or
having to be dropped on the job that results in lateness. Through women accessing microloans and not
depending on NGOs, they will be able to carry out their agendas effectively.

Furthermore, through the gender equality program, women will be able to access fair pay for work
done compared with men. As a result of this, they will be able to contribute to the Philippine economy
positively as they will have the means to do this.

Lastly, teaching the program that focuses on the history of Philippine women, and society, will
enable the learning of historical injustices that have resulted in women's importance and their
contribution to society being minimal. Upon correcting these injustices, they will be able to contribute
to society positively.

Although the Philippines still has rooms for improvement in addressing issues concerning women,
it is by-far a great place to become a woman.  One of the best things that your country could probably
give to you is the chance to aspire and create your own future without unfair limits.  The Philippines
could set an example to its Asian neighbors on how to move-on from traditional mindsets and accept
that everyone deserves equal opportunities and treatment regardless of appearance, size, color, age and
gender.