The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) started its celebration of the “National Women’s Month” this March with a “Purple Action March” together with members of the women human rights defenders (WHRDs).

And in partnership with Sarilaya and the Gabriela National Alliance of Filipino Women, the CHR will hold a month-long celebration under the theme “Women Human Rights Defenders as Living SHEroes.”

The CHR said: “The initiative recognizes women’s courage and highlights their role at the frontlines of struggles against discrimination, violence, corruption, labor exploitation, and environmental destruction.”

The commission said it will also spearhead several other activities such as the Lingkod Bayan Hub: Serbisyo para sa Mamamayan, advocacy booths and photo exhibits, the Purple Bazaar, the Kilos Lila: Youth’s Right to Suffrage Forum, She Rises: Women Farmers and Food Security (Kababaihang Magsasaka: Para Saan ka Bumabangon?" the theme of this month's Food Security Forum/Kapihan at Kamustahan, and Women with Disabilities Day -- all highlighting the voices and contributions of women across sectors.

It paid tribute to the WHRDs who work tirelessly to advance dignity and equality across society, even as the country deals with gender-based reprisals like intimidation, harassment, threats, red-tagging, surveillance, and arbitrary arrests.

“Women must not be trapped in a cycle that turns them into victims and survivors of gender-based discrimination, harassment, and violence. Duty-bearers must ensure an enabling environment where every woman can flourish and remain safe from threats and attacks,” the CHR declared.

It added: “Safeguarding women’s rights is both a legal and moral obligation. Let this year’s celebration call us to shape communities where women freely and safely occupy every space they choose, and where equality lives in everyday life.”