The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) honors the courage, selflessness and sacrifices of women, particularly during the challenges brought about by the corona virus diseases 2019 (COVID-19), and in their relentless fight against human rights violations.
In a statement issued on Monday, March 8, International Women’s Day, the CHR said:
"We honor the many women who played crucial roles in addressing the ongoing pandemic -- in households, communities, hospitals, health facilities, and various public and private institutions.
"We honor the women who continue to fight against impunity, call out persisting misogyny and demand accountability for human rights violations."
Through Commissioner Karen Gomez Dumpit, the CHR said this year’s celebration under the theme "Juana Laban sa Pandemya: Kaya" highlights the contributions of women and girls all over the world and stresses the importance of gender justice in a post-COVID-19 world.
Commissioner Dumpit, the Focal Commissioner for Gender and Women’s Rights of the CHR, paid tribute to women politicians such as Sen. Leila M. de Lima and Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” G. Robredo “who continue to do their work and display courage amidst undeserved sexist attacks.”
Also, the CHR honors women human rights defenders and activists “who face persistent crackdowns, red-tagging, and threats on their safety and security” for their “brave advocacy for human rights and accountability.”
"This International Women’s Day, the Commission, as Gender Ombud, reiterates the call for gender justice in the government’s COVID-19 recovery plan, including vaccine rollouts," Dumpit said.
She stressed that all Filipinos should do their part “in realizing a gender-equal world where both men and women, as well as boys and girls, work together in lifting each other up and no longer discriminating against each other.”