From Ms. Francisca C. Bawayan, the Episcopal Diocese of Central Philippines
In Manila, the 100th year celebration of International Women's Day was marked by protest actions by some 1,500 women activists. Their demand was for our Philippine Congress to pass a comprehensive reproductive health bill and to urge the government to address the rising prices of basic commodities and public transportation.
Rallies and demonstrations were likewise held in various regions in the Philippines. A group called Philippine Network of World March of Women, said: "Filipino women have no access to and control over economic resources in the same way that we continue to be deprived of control over our own bodies, our health and reproductive capabilities."
Our Senate, likewise paid tribute to IWD. Senator Pia Cayetano, said there is an urgent need to improve maternal health services across the country, particularly in the countryside where medical services, equipment and personnel are scarce. She noted that the "Philippines has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the Asian region. Some 11 Filipino women die while giving birth every day."
On the ecumenical front, the National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP) and the Ecumenical Women's Forum (EWF) organized and sponsored a Liturgical Celebration of the International Women's Day at the Church of the Risen Lord in Quezon City. It was a well attended event of women, students, and clergy (including bishops) from various denominations of Protestant Churches and the Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines.
Theme of the liturgical celebration was: "Women as Peacemakers: Confronting Crisis and War," which were expounded on through songs, cultural presentations, women situationer lectures, gospel readings; and capped by a biblico-theological reflection. Most of the discussions were focused on the attainment of peace in war-torn countries and the concern for women and children caught in the cross-fires plus the economic devastation women would have to bear as a result of these violent actions.
When the liturgy was brought to a close, our prayer was: "God of peace, God of justice, God of infinite mercy, remember us your people."