‘Abante, babae!’
Every March, the color purple spreads across cities, government buildings, and social media timelines as hashtags trend, speeches are delivered, and banners proudly declare: “Abante, babae!” a rallying cry to celebrate women’s strength, achievements, and resilience. For a moment, the country appears united in honoring women, but when March ends, and the purple lights fade, an important question remains: What actually changes for women after the celebration?
Women’s Month is not merely a ceremonial observance; instead, its roots lie in global labor movements and protests that demanded better working conditions, voting rights, and political participation for women around the world. What began as a movement for justice eventually led to the international recognition of International Women’s Day every March 8—a reminder that gender equality was fought for, not simply granted.
The Philippines itself has taken significant legal steps toward that goal with the Magna Carta of Women, enacted in 2009, which guarantees the protection and promotion of women’s rights, ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, and governance. It recognizes women not only as beneficiaries of development, but also as active participants in shaping society. Yet despite these protections, the reality for many women remains far from equal.
?Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data show that one in four Filipino women aged 15 to 49 has experienced physical, emotional, or sexual violence from a partner. Meanwhile, reports from the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) continue to highlight persistent issues such as workplace discrimination, gender pay gaps, and gender-based harassment. These statistics reveal a troubling contradiction: while the country celebrates women every March, many women still face inequality and violence the rest of the year.
Recent public controversies have also exposed how deeply misogyny remains embedded in public discourse in our country. The remarks made by certain public officials toward female public figures and comments widely criticized as sexist and degrading serve as reminders that disrespect toward women can still surface even in positions of power. When those entrusted with leadership normalize such attitudes, it weakens the very message that Women’s Month seeks to promote.
Colored lights projected onto government buildings are powerful visual statements. Purple, historically associated with justice and dignity, symbolizes women’s long fight for equality. These displays can raise awareness and spark curiosity among younger generations; however, awareness without action risks becoming mere decoration.
Does illumination equal liberation?
Celebrating women through speeches and symbolic gestures is easy; designing posters and organizing forums is still easier. However, genuine celebration must be measured by tangible progress. Is it reflected in safer public spaces for women? In policies that ensure equal pay for equal work? In accessible healthcare and reproductive services? In stronger enforcement against harassment and abuse? In classrooms where young girls are encouraged not only to participate, but to lead? These are the true indicators of empowerment.
?If women continue to face discrimination, violence, and silencing, then the purple lights become ironic—beautiful on the outside, but hollow within. They illuminate buildings, but not necessarily the everyday realities women encounter.
?Women’s Month should not be reduced to a once-a-year performance. It must be a continuous commitment.
?Government institutions must ensure that laws protecting women are not only passed but fully implemented. Schools must cultivate environments where equality is actively practiced, and communities must challenge harmful stereotypes and promote respect in everyday interactions. Furthermore, individuals, regardless of gender, must recognize that real empowerment begins with accountability.
?Only then can the call of “Abante, babae!” move beyond a slogan.
?The purple lights will fade after March, the hashtags will disappear from trending lists, but the fight for equality should remain visible—in policies, institutions, and daily actions. Because the true measure of Women’s Month is not how brightly buildings glow for thirty-one days.
?It is how boldly a society stands for women every single day of the year.