Sarah Elago (Facebook)

Gabriela Women’s Party (GWP) or Gabriela Party-list from the progressive Makabayan bloc launched its reelection bid in the upcoming 20th Congress on Tuesday, Feb. 11.

Sara Elago, GWP's first nominee and former Kabataan Party-list, laid out the pro-women party’s platform.

Its vision is a society that embraces its people, a progressive agriculture and industry that ensures livelihood, a nation that recognizes rights and talent of women, affordable prices of basic needs, and a united people for sovereignty, freedom and justice.

Meanwhile, GWP’s second nominee, Cathy Estavillio, is calling for the immediate repeal of the Rice Liberalization Law and the removal of VAT and excise taxes on basic commodities to address soaring prices.

"Ang tumitinding krisis sa ekonomiya ay direktang tumatama sa kababaihan. Sa panahong tumataas ang presyo ng bigas at pagkain, mas nagiging bulnerable ang kababaihan sa iba't ibang porma ng karahasan at pang-aabuso​ (The worsening economic crisis has direct impact on women. In times when the prices of rice and food are on the rise, women become more vulnerable to different forms of violence and abuse)," Estavillo said.

Gabriela Party-list’s third nominee, Jean Lindo, emphasized the importance of exposing traditional politics which has dominated the elections.

"We stand in stark contrast to traditional political dynasties that perpetuate their rule through the 4Gs—guns, goons, gold, and the exploitation of girls. We champion the politics of change that truly serves the people's interests," Lindo said.

Gabriela is represented in the current 19th Congress by Arlene Brosas. Brosas is running for senator under the Makabayan slate in the May 12 mid-term elections.