Aquino lauds women who ‘sparked hope’ in times of disasters

President Benigno Aquino III. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III lauded the women sector during the International Women’s Day, even as a militant party-list criticized the administration for its “illusions” of women’s welfare in the country.

In a statement, Aquino said women have a role to spark hope for their families in the midst of the disasters that hit the country in 2013 – the 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Bohol, the Zamboanga city attack by the Moro National Liberation Front, and the Super Typhoon “Yolanda” (Haiyan) in Central Philippines.

“To the women who sparked hope at the time of disaster, to those who untiringly took care of families hit by the disaster… I salute  you,” Aquino said on Saturday.

Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. also said in a statement that the Palace recognizes the role of women for change in the midst of natural calamities.
“This year, we recognize the Filipino women who served as a catalyst for change and who showed courage, affection, and love for their families and communities in the midst of the calamities that hit the country last year, “ he said.

But women’s party-list Gabriela was not convinced, saying the administration has “illusions” of improvement in the situation of women in the country.

“The Palace is believing its own ridiculous illusions about the supposed gains of women, when our masses are testifying that increased prices of rice, fuel, and electricity are driving women into penury,” Gabriela Representative Emmi De Jesus said.

Militants led by Gabriela trooped to Mendiola on Saturday, calling for an end to violence against women and criticizing moves in Congress to lift the foreign restrictions in the Constitution.

“On International Women’s Day, we pledge to oppose Cha-cha and fight moves to open our economy  and services to foreign capital thereby opening government hospitals, power, water and other basic services to foreign business,” De Jesus said.

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