CHR bats for equality, justice as nation starts celebration of women’s month

The Commission on Human Rights in Quezon City. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / NINO JESUS ORBETA

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has sought accountability and discussion on women’s urgent issues during the “Purple Action Day” parade in celebration of women’s month.

“We continue the call for the full enjoyment of women’s rights, we call for non-discrimination, and protection from all forms of violence, especially women human rights defenders,” CHR Commissioner Faydah Dumarpa said Wednesday.

According to Dumarpa, Purple Action Day has always been a space for solidarity and collective action since 2016, highlighting the role of women leaders and advocates in advancing good governance ensuring that no one is left behind for social justice.

She mentioned the current economic challenges that burden women especially those from low-income households and the continued over-representation in the informal economy.

“We reiterate that the State has the primary obligation to ensure an enabling environment for all human rights defenders and to protect defenders from threats and attacks,” the CHR also said, as it joined calls for the immediate passage of the SOGIE Equality Bill and the Comprehensive Anti Discrimination Bill (CADB).

It likewise highlighted the significant role of women leaders in governance who are working for social justice, noting how inclusive and transformative leadership impacts the lives of the most marginalized.

The women’s month was opened together with other women’s organizations Gabriela Alliance of Filipino Women and Sariaya with the theme “Kababaihan para sa Karapatan; Kababaihan para sa Makatarungang Lipunan.” — Denver Godezano, trainee

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