2024 National Women’s Month Celebration

The National Women’s Month Celebration has its roots in the recognition of International
Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8th, a historical event stemming from the organizing
efforts of women in the early 20th Century. Between 1909 and 1911, working women in
the United States, united under the National Women’s Trade Union League and other
groups, protested against low wages, lack of protective legislation, and harsh working
conditions.

These demonstrations were a response to the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in
March 1911 in New York City, claiming the lives of over 140 working girls, primarily
Italian and Jewish immigrants. The subsequent observances of IWD invoked the
appalling working conditions and unfair labor practices leading up to the disaster.

In Europe, Clara Zetkin and the Socialist Women’s International advocated for March 8th
to be recognized as International Women’s Day, annually celebrating working women
worldwide. This celebration has left an indelible mark on historical events, including
inspiring the general strike that initiated the Russian Revolution in St. Petersburg in 1917,
where 10,000 women textile workers voiced their concerns.

IWD gained official recognition by the United Nations as a day to celebrate women’s
contributions to societies globally. In the Philippines, the National Women’s Month
Celebration has become a platform to spotlight women’s accomplishments and address
ongoing and emerging issues related to women’s empowerment and gender equality. The
focus is on concrete activities aligned with national and international agreements,
including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against
Women, the Beijing Platform for Action, the Philippine Plan for Gender-Responsive
Development (1995-2025), the Framework Plan for Women, and the Sustainable
Development Goals.
 Elements of the Theme

WE represents Women and Everyone, highlighting the collective responsibility for

gender equality, not solely resting on women but involving everyone. WE also
symbolizes Women’s Empowerment, a goal achievable when various entities, ranging
from agencies and institutions to private partners and duty-bearers at national and local
levels, ensure women equal rights and opportunities. The active participation of women
in seizing these opportunities is also essential. Through the collaborative efforts of
women and everyone, achieving gender equality becomes a tangible possibility.

Gender Equality constitutes the first component of the Gender Equality and Women’s
Empowerment (GEWE) advocacy, representing the fundamental goal in advancing
women’s rights. The theme underscores the need for accelerated action to intensify
efforts toward this crucial aspiration. According to the Global Gender Gap Report,
progress is slow, with the global gender gap closing at only 68.4%. At this rate, achieving
complete parity would require 131 years. It must also be noted that no country has yet
attained full gender parity.

Despite this extended timeline, the struggle for gender equality today is an investment in
a more inclusive and improved future, even if the complete realization may extend
beyond our current generations. The phrase gender equality is also preceded by the word
“for”, signifying our call to women and everyone to advocate for, take action on, and
promote equality and inclusivity.

Inclusive society goes beyond a gender-responsive approach; it champions a society that

surpasses the distinctions in SOGIE, class, ability, generation, status, and culture. It
envisions a society where every individual, each endowed with rights and
responsibilities, plays an active role. Equality and inclusion are interwoven elements of
the GEWE advocacy, emphasizing the importance of fostering a society that embraces
and celebrates diversity.

Focus for the 2024 National Women’s Month Celebration

Grounded on the objective of transforming culture toward a more equal and inclusive
future, the 2024 NWMC bears the sub-theme, “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas;
Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, patutunayan!” It echoes the target outcomes of Chapter
15 in the Updated Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Plan 2019-2025 towards
transforming gender norms and culture.

With “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the 2024 sub-theme calls for a Bagong
Pilipinas where women are given equitable opportunities and not hindered by gender
biases and discriminatory stereotypes. “Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, patutunayan!,” aims
to showcase and harness the full potentials of women and girls in actively engaging in
and reaping the benefits of national growth and development. However, achieving this
requires an enabling environment free from discriminatory values, stereotypes, beliefs,
treatment, and portrayal of women and girls across family, religion, education, sports,
media, and other relevant institutions. The vision extends to government agencies and
institutions incorporating gender mainstreaming in the bureaucracy, men joining the
cause for equality, and establishing a legal framework that supports the protection of
marginalized groups of women, including the girl child, persons with disabilities,
Indigenous Peoples, Muslims, and those with diverse Sexual Orientation, Gender
Identity, and Expression (SOGIE).

Objectives

The National Women’s Month Celebration 2024 aims to:

 Inform and engage women and everyone in pushing for the transformation of gender
norms and culture towards an inclusive society;
 Highlight the collaborative efforts of government agencies and the private sector in
addressing poverty and strengthening financial institutions to bridge gender gaps,
advocating for social protection systems, and enhancing access to public services and
sustainable infrastructure for women and girls;
 Provide platforms to share good practices and address gaps, challenges, and
commitments in pursuing gender and development (GAD), further strengthening the
implementation of the Magna Carta of Women toward its milestone 15th year this 2024;
 Inspire women and girls to empower themselves and take on leadership roles,
opportunities, and benefits toward maximizing their full potential and enabling them to
reap the fruits of gender equality;
 Promote a society that ensures inclusion, protection of fundamental freedoms, diversity,
and social justice, in which every individual, each with rights and responsibilities, is
capacitated and encouraged to take an active role in playing.

PCW-led activities

Stakeholders are enjoined to participate or support the activities organized by the PCW in
time for the 2024 NWMC.

International Women’s Day Celebration: Investing in Equality toward Gender-Inclusive

Prosperity
In celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, 2024, the Philippine
Commission on Women, SM Supermalls, and UN Women will lead conversations
anchored in the IWD theme “Invest in women: Accelerate progress”. The focus will be
on addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing through a gender
perspective. The session will delve into crucial topics such as financing with a gender
lens and the outcomes of Gender and Development (GAD) budget initiatives. Esteemed
panelists from different key government agencies will provide valuable insights. The
session will also highlight the various initiatives of the United Nations agencies and
development partners in accelerating progress through empowering and enabling women,
in line with the relevant Sustainable Development Goals. Another discussion will
spotlight the important role of technology in advancing women’s empowerment,
particularly for entrepreneurs, and how businesses can leverage technology to bridge
gender gaps and promote social change. From corporate social responsibility initiatives to
sustainable business practices, the discussion aims to shed light on the multifaceted ways
in which the private sector can act as catalysts for poverty alleviation and institution-
building. Another session will zero in on gender-inclusive inclusive financing and
exploring ways to combat poverty through technology, with a specific emphasis on
finance technology and ICT.

Launching of the radio plugs development on transforming gender norms

Dedicated to cultivating a culture of gender equality, the PCW intends to harness the
power and influence of radio to connect with audiences. To be teased during the NWMC
2024, these radio plugs will endeavor to question and transform prevailing societal
norms, prompting a transition toward a more inclusive and fair society. The radio plugs,
concise but catchy, aim to spark conversations about the existing norms and how these
can be changed.

#JuanaSays 2024

Marking a decade since it was launched in 2015, #JuanaSays will feature daily
inspirational statements from women who have made a significant impact, shattered
stereotypes, and played a pivotal role in reshaping gender norms in various fields.
Aligned with the International Women’s Day theme, this year’s #JuanaSays will also
spotlight women who are at the forefront of initiatives aimed at narrowing gender
disparities in finance. This includes their efforts in addressing poverty, providing
financial education and technology, advocating for social protection systems, and
improving access to public services and sustainable infrastructure for women and girls.

#WEcanbeEquALL

Mobilizing support to the cause for gender equality, the online campaign aims to express
our optimism that #WEcanbeEquALL. This hashtag inspires women and everyone (WE)
to advocate for equality and inclusivity, ensuring that ALL, irrespective of gender,
ability, status, or circumstances, receive due respect and rights. With our rallying banner
#WEcanbeEquALL, the commitment is to leave no one behind. Participants are
encouraged to use this hashtag to not only share their dedication but also outline their
plans of action in the pursuit of gender equality and the establishment of an inclusive
society.

2024 NWMC Sticker Pack

The PCW will release a digital sticker pack designed for daily use, filled with uplifting
messages centered around gender equality and women’s empowerment. This innovative
sticker pack serves as a powerful tool to infuse positivity into daily digital conversations
while promoting essential values of equality and empowerment. Users can easily
incorporate these expressive stickers into their daily interactions, fostering awareness and
encouraging discussions on the crucial issues of gender parity. With a diverse range of
positive messages, PCW’s digital sticker pack aims to make a meaningful impact by
fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect in the digital realm, one sticker at a time.

Suggested Activities

PCW urges national and local government offices, non-government organizations,

sectoral groups, private entities, civil society organizations, and various stakeholders at
national, regional, and local levels to organize meaningful and pertinent activities
aligning with the overarching theme and sub-theme of the 2024 National Women’s
Month Celebration (NWMC) and the Gender and Development (GAD) objectives.
Possible activities may include:

NWMC-themed Flag Raising Ceremony

Government agencies and local government units are encouraged to incorporate National
Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC) announcements, reminders, messages, and
activities during their respective Flag Raising Ceremonies in the last week of February
and the first week of March (or other applicable dates). The use of the All-Women Cast
Lupang Hinirang Video in NWMC events is strongly advised. The music video can be
downloaded from https://library.pcw.gov.ph/lupang-hinirang-all-women-cast/.

For GAD Focal Point System (GFPS) Members

Members of the GFPS in agencies mandated to empower women and girls through
initiatives addressing poverty, strengthening institutions, financing with a gender
perspective, promoting social protection systems, access to public services, and
sustainable infrastructure for gender equality, are invited to attend the onsite event on
International Women’s Day (March 8). This is a collaborative event to be conducted in
collaboration with UN Women and SM Supermalls. Updates with specific details will be
posted on the National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC) webpage.

GAD Forum / GAD Agenda Setting

Government agencies and local government units (LGUs) can hold onsite, virtual, or
hybrid activities addressing gender issues within their purview, aligned with their
respective mandates. These initiatives can involve tackling gender-related challenges and
assessing internal concerns that require prompt attention. Through GAD Agenda Setting,
agencies and LGUs can engage in reflection on their own Gender and Development
(GAD) journey, strategically planning future initiatives to foster gender-responsive
governance. This approach aims to contribute to the well-being of their
clients/constituents and internal stakeholders.

#GADtoKnow

Agencies and LGUs can create, circulate, and/or disseminate information materials (both
online and in print) that highlight their roster of gender-responsive programs and services
catering to women. These materials can also outline simplified steps and requirements for
women to access these services. Additionally, participating agencies and stakeholders are
encouraged to generate and distribute various Information, Education, and
Communication (IEC) materials pertaining to the National Women’s Month Celebration
and relevant women-related laws. Agencies can access information materials
at https://library.pcw.gov.ph.

Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan!

Together, we say, women can and women will!. Let’s redefine gender narratives by
organizing interactive activities that open discussions about gender equality, challenge
stereotypes, and promote cultural shifts. Stakeholders could invite knowledgeable
speakers, including gender experts and advocates, to share insights on breaking down
societal norms and cultivating a more inclusive culture. Workshops, onsite or online,
could also include activities that encourage participants to reflect on their own biases and
engage in dialogue about how to collectively create positive change by taking concrete
actions. This hands-on approach not only raises awareness but also actively involves
stakeholders in the process of transforming gender and social norms during the
celebration.
Twenty Years of Republic Act 9262: Looking back and looking forward.

Year 2024 marks the twentieth year since the passage of Republic Act 9262, also known
as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act. A landmark
legislation in the Philippines, it aimed to address and prevent domestic violence against
women and children. In commemoration of its passage on March 8, 2004, agencies,
especially with mandates relative to addressing VAW, can conduct activities that aim to
look back at the significant strides in the country’s commitment to safeguarding the rights
and well-being of women and children through this law. They can also evaluate the gaps
and challenges in implementing the law and formulate ways to strengthen measures to
combat various forms of VAW.

2024 NWMC banner of support

Show that you are for gender equality and inclusive society! Exhibit the National
Women’s Month Celebration banner prominently in front of your offices, landmarks, and
other designated areas. In addition, upload the digital version to your agency’s or
organization’s official website and social media accounts.

#PurpleFridays or #PurpleYourIcon

Don anything in the color purple every Friday throughout March to symbolize solidarity
with women’s empowerment and gender equality. Additionally, consider illuminating or
adorning offices or landmarks with purple elements as a tribute to women and their
impactful contributions to society. This gesture serves not only as a celebration but also
as a catalyst for conversations surrounding the National Women’s Month Celebration.

Musika ng Kababaihan Fridays (#MNKFridays)

Tune into gender equality with melodies and harmony! Share the songs from the
MusikJuana Songwriting Contest and other PCW advocacy tunes within office spaces,
public and private establishments, parks, and across social media platforms every Friday
throughout March. Get these hymns of women’s
empowerment: https://library.pcw.gov.ph/search/?q=musikjuana.

Offer your own “Serbisyo para kay Juana”.

Public and private entities delivering direct services, transactions, and products to the
public have the option to extend gestures of appreciation to women and girls on
International Women’s Day (March 8) and/or other dates in March. These tokens may
include freebies, discounts, special lanes, and other promotions as a tribute during this
special month of celebration. Moreover, government agencies and private organizations,
especially those involved in addressing poverty, in finance, social protection measures,
access to public services, and sustainable infrastructure, can organize caravans, fairs, or
similar activities. These events can serve as platforms to disseminate information about
their efforts and initiatives aimed at empowering women in these aspects. Stakeholders
who wish to have their #SerbisyoParaKayJuana activities included in PCW’s list for
announcements are requested to fill out the form on the NWMC webpage.

Coordination with regional and local GAD mechanisms

Coordination with Regional GAD Councils aims to facilitate inter-agency activities

focused on enhancing the implementation and monitoring of key legislations such as the
Magna Carta of Women, as well as other laws pertaining to women’s rights and Gender
and Development. By fostering cooperation at both regional and local levels, these
initiatives contribute to a more comprehensive and effective approach in advancing
gender equality and empowering women within their respective areas.

Organize activities in support of the Girl-Child Week and the Women with Disabilities Day
Celebration

Everyone is encouraged to join the Girl Child Week, observed every fourth week of
March, which is led by the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), as well as the
Women with Disabilities Day celebration spearheaded annually by the National Council
on Disability Affairs (NCDA).

Use the official collateral designs released by PCW

Stakeholders are encouraged to utilize the official branding design released by the PCW
for the 2024 National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC). The branding guide,
standard banner, and sample collateral designs are available for download at the NWMC
webpage.

Use the official hashtag: #WEcanbeEquALL

Generating support for the cause, the online campaign aims to demonstrate our hope that
#WEcanbeEquALL. This hashtag encourages women and everyone (WE) to advocate for
equality and inclusivity, emphasizing the importance that ALL individuals, irrespective
of gender, ability, status, or situation, are treated with respect and granted their rights.
Participants are invited to use this hashtag not only to express their dedication but also to
share their commitments and action plans in advancing gender equality and advancing an
inclusive society.

Support PCW’s online advocacy

Leverage the full potential of the digital sphere by amplifying the advocacy online,
promoting PCW’s official social media accounts, and crafting NWMC campaigns
tailored to individual agencies. Use the 2024 NWMC Advocacy Profile Photo and
Background, along with other online resources such as the sticker pack, collaterals, and
story frames. Participants are encouraged to showcase their activities in the virtual space
and actively engage in the online conversation using the hashtag #WEcanbeEquALL.

Be featured in the NWMC Calendar of Activities and Activity Photos

The PCW strongly encourages agencies with planned activities to share the details with
the Commission, so their events can be featured in the NWMC Calendar of Activities.
Moreover, agencies can submit photos of their activities for potential posting on PCW’s
Facebook page, subject to review and adherence to deadlines. Submission of activity
lineups and photos can be done through the links available on the NWMC webpage.