The Nightingale Issue 2 | News & Feature Section by Protection of Women's Equality and Rights

The Nightingale Issue 2: Kahilwayan

Published in Davao City, Philippines.

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The Nightingale

The Official Publication Arm of Protection of Women's Equality & Rights in Ateneo de Davao University (POWER AdDU). poweraddu@addu.edu.ph.

Editorial Board Editorial Board

Mari Andreiane Dormitorio

Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief

Rena Christine Bustamante Rena Christine Bustamante

Associate Editor Associate Editor

Andre Ysabelle Costañemo

Graphics & Layout Head Graphics & Layout Head

News Writers News Writers

ClaresseArtiaga ClaresseArtiaga JulliaLauriceBantiding JulliaLauriceBantiding GwenStefanieEtang GwenStefanieEtang MikyllaLorraineLabis MikyllaLorraineLabis

Literary Writers Literary Writers

NicoleAbenojar NicoleAbenojar ChristieAngelCadiz ChristieAngelCadiz ClaireLunethDeomampo ClaireLunethDeomampo

Lorrhaine Mae Baintin

News Editor News Editor

Princess Louise Gracelle Lacorte

Feature Editor Feature Editor

Andree Sibonga Andree Sibonga

Literary Editor Literary Editor

Staff Writers Staff Writers

Feature Writers Feature Writers

AndreaMa.IsabelleColis AndreaMa.IsabelleColis ZoexandraAndreaEnricuso ZoexandraAndreaEnricuso MeganAndreaFuentes MeganAndreaFuentes AlexAndreaGumera AlexAndreaGumera ElizahKymOrtiz ElizahKymOrtiz GwynethNicollePesidas GwynethNicollePesidas AldianneChampagneTamayo AldianneChampagneTamayo

Graphics & Layout Team

AveMaeAbonado AveMaeAbonado

CzarlsAudreyDaviennAndrew CzarlsAudreyDaviennAndrew KristinaFatimaAnnaGuba KristinaFatimaAnnaGuba KeathlyShyneMasiglat KeathlyShyneMasiglat EllaMarieQuilo EllaMarieQuilo BeaJanineTupas BeaJanineTupas

A.Y. 2023-2024 Editorial Editorial S Sttaff aff

Notefrom the Editors

In a world where voices are often silenced and experiences overlooked, it is imperative we elevate and celebrate the diverse narratives of our women. With the theme Empowering Diverse Narratives: Intersectional Feminism at the Forefront, The Nightingale's second issue Kahilwayan recognizes that gender equality cannot exist in a society that does not address the intersecting systems of oppression that impact individualsdifferently.

This issue is a testament to the strength and resilience of those whose stories have been marginalized. From amplifying the voices of women of color to shedding light on the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, this magazine aims to center intersectionality in the discourse, acknowledging the complexities of lived experiences andstrivingtofosterinclusivityandsolidaritywithinthefeministmovement.

As you navigate these pages, you will encounter narratives that challenge traditional norms and defy simplistic stereotypes. We invite you to read with an open heart and mind,recognizingthateachstoryaddsauniquethreadtoourcollectivejourneytoward equality,expandingourunderstandingoffeminism.

In the spirit of empowerment and solidarity, let us champion diverse narratives, lifting each other up as we march towards a future where every voice is heard, and every individual is valued. Together, we can build a world where women's empowerment and rightsarearealityforall.

Thereisnowheretogobutup.

RianDormitorio&ChristineBustamante

N Neews ws

Sec Secttion ion

POWER AdDU commences second general assembly, highlights org initiatives

arkinganotheryearM of progress for the organization, the Protection of Women's Equality and Rights in Ateneo de Davao University (POWER AdDU)kickedoffitsfirst gathering for the academic year with the theme,"WomeninSync: POWER's 2nd General Assembly."

AlexeiDenisseAman, thecurrentpresidentof POWER AdDU, outlined specific goals for the current school year, emphasizing the continuation and expansion of the club's initiatives.

"Myprioritiesforthis schoolyearweretohave a POWER Commune, which is the legislative arcofPOWER.Next,[we hada]conference[last] November, which was about debunking myths and misconceptions aboutfeminism.

Lastly, to have a local summithereinAteneois one of my utmost priorities,"Amansaid.

Theeventcommenced with Jhoanna Cayanan, POWER-AdDU's founding president, discussing the organization'sfoundation and timeline. During the assembly, the organization introduced its core officers, highlighting the leadership team responsibleforsteeringit towardsitsgoals.

Aman encouraged aspiringmemberstojoin POWER,emphasizingthe importanceofembracing one's purpose within feminism and feminist identity.

"Goforit,myadvice reallyistojustgoforit… Thereisnosuchthingas not being feminist enough. Find your peoplewhowanttojoin withyouandyou

Laurice Bantiding by

can find your purpose with POWER," Aman stated.

The event was held in theBapaBennyTudtud Auditorium last October 7,2023.

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 NEWS SECTION

Jullia

POWER AdDU POWER AdDU exudes exudes purple purple for for International International Women's Month Women's Month

Lorrhaine Mae Baintin by

As part of POWER AdDU's various initiatives for International Women's Month, the organization spearheaded the distribution of purple ribbons around AteneodeDavaoUniversityaspartofits campaign to create safe spaces and empowerwomen.

Thedistributionofpurpleribbonswasa crucial part of POWER AdDU's campaign for women's empowerment, especially within the campus. Through this initiative, the organization contributed towards increasing awareness of and celebrating women's achievements throughout the monthofMarch.

POWER AdDU POWER AdDU

EJ Labuguen, the initiative's logistics head, explains that the project was a continuing idea based on the successful distributionofpinkribbonslastOctoberin commemoration of Breast Cancer AwarenessMonth.

Thedistributionofpurpleribbonsaimed toserveasavisiblesymbolofcelebration throughout March. We achieved this goal by pinning the purple ribbons to the ID slings, ensuring their visibility and significance,"Labuguenshared.

Purple ribbons have historically been usedtocelebratewomen'ssuccessesand experiencesworldwide.Itscolorisseento signifytraitssuchasstrength,dignity,and justice, clarifying the choice of color for thisinitiative.

Pioneers the Pioneers the #OnWednesdays #OnWednesdays WeWear WeWearPink Pink Movement Movement

Mikylla Lorraine Labis by

StridingthroughthehallwaysofAteneo de Davao University and flaunting their pink attires, students took part in the #OnWednesdaysWeWearPink movement spearheadedbyPOWERAdDUaspartof the International Women's Month celebration.

At its core, the initiative intended to fosterinclusivityandempowermentacross Ateneo, encouraging students of all genderstostandinsolidaritywithwomen duringtheanticipatedmonthofMarch.

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In an interview with POWER AdDU President Alexei Denisse Aman, she expressedhersatisfactionwiththeevent, noting the sense of camaraderie fostered bythestudentsbythesharedexperience ofwearingthecolor.

"It was great because we got to see everyone joining in on the fun while also showing their personalities. It was also great because there seemed to be some sortofconnectionwithpeoplewhenboth ofyouwerewearingpink,"Amansaid.

"I think because of the movement, it fosteredbothconversationandawareness in the AdDU community. Because of the initiativebeingfunandopentothosewho wishtoparticipate,ithasbecomeeasierto sparkconversations,"Gumerasaid.

The initiative transpired during the four Wednesdays of March, starting from March5-27,2024.

When asked how the initiative came to be, Aman revealed the activity was includedspontaneously.

"To be honest, it was a last-minute addition. We realized that there should also be a fun initiative wherein everyone canjoinandshowsupportwithoutactually havingtodosomuch,"Amanshared.

Moreover, POWER AdDU member and participant Alex Gumera emphasized the significance of participating in small gestures like wearing pink during Women'sMonth.

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WeWsyadsendeWnO#raeP i kn # OnWednesdaysWeWearPink

POWERAdDU’s FearlesslyFeminist Conference promptsgender equalitydialogues

ddressingkeyissuessurroundingthe feminist movement, POWER AdDU organized Fearlessly Feminist: A Conference on Unveiling Truths about Feminism and Men’s Roles as Allies last November24,2023.

Featuring speakers Dr. Vida Mia Valverde, the Chair of the University's Department of Philosophy, and Gabriel Lizada, the Co-Chair of the Positive Psychology Special Interest Group of the Psychological Associaton of the Philippines(PAP),theeventexploredand discussed the misconceptions that surround the feminist movement and the crucialrolesofmenasallies,respectively.

With over 60 participants, the event shed light on the struggles that women faceinapatriarchalsociety,rangingfrom societal expectations that women are pressured to fit into, as well as microaggressions that stem from internalized misogyny that is often left undetected.

According to Claresse Artiaga, one of the participants in the event, the conference provided her with valuable insights into the journey women go through.

"Being a woman is often known to be taxingandchallenging.Thisgatheringhas given me a great understanding of a woman'sjourneytofindstrengthinthese

moments that pivot them beyond their capabilities,"Artiagasaid.

InvitedstudentreactorsAlexGumeraand Sung Goon Acosta also shared their insights and takeaways from the conference, drawing from their own experiencestocomplementtheevent.

Whenaskedaboutherexperienceasa student reactor and how the event contributed to POWER's advocacy, Gumera shared that the event helped expandone'sawarenessofwhatitmeans tobeawomanandafeminist.

"It broadened the understanding of a woman's identity, and it brings in a realization that feminism isn't just a monolithictopicthatrequirestheeffortof women alone, but rather, the collective effortofanyoneregardlessoftheirchosen identityorgender,”Gumeraexplained.

Furthermore, empathy and sensitivity were key highlights in the discussion on the inclusion of men in the feminist movement,especiallywithanemphasison identifying men's need to help and be involvedinadvancingthemovement.

Asthefrontrunnerforchangeingender equality and women empowerment in AdDU, POWER remains steadfast in its determination to be the bastion for equality,oneprojectatatime.

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Lorrhaine Mae Baintin by A Photo by POWER Creatives Photo by POWER Creatives

OnEncouragingWomento OnEncouragingWomento Take Up Space: POWER Take Up Space: POWER AdDU Holds Its First Local AdDU Holds Its First Local Summit Summit

Mikylla Lorraine Labis by

IIn line with this year's International n line with this year's International Women'sMonth,POWERAdDUlaunched Women'sMonth,POWERAdDUlaunched HERizon: Where Inspiration Meets HERizon: Where Inspiration Meets Empowerment,itsfirstlocalsummit. Empowerment,itsfirstlocalsummit.

POWER AdDU President Alexei Denisse

POWER AdDU President Alexei Denisse Aman stated that the event aims to Aman stated that the event aims to promote empowerment through the promote empowerment through the stories of accomplished women in their stories of accomplished women in their respectiveandvariousfields,invitingwellrespectiveandvariousfields,invitingwellversed speakers to discuss gender-based versed speakers to discuss gender-based issues touching on the themes of issues touching on the themes of leadership, business, art, sports, and leadership, business, art, sports, and communication. communication.

"HERizonismorethanjustanevent,buta "HERizonismorethanjustanevent,buta beacon of hope against gender beacon of hope against gender stereotypesandbarriersinsociety,"Aman stereotypesandbarriersinsociety,"Aman said. said.

AdvocateforPeaceandGenderEquality

AdvocateforPeaceandGenderEquality and AdDU Board of Trustees member and AdDU Board of Trustees member Mags Maglana raised an important point Mags Maglana raised an important point about the gender-inclusive electoral about the gender-inclusive electoral provisions recently instigated in the provisions recently instigated in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), stating that Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), stating that the BARMM government is encouraging the BARMM government is encouraging womentoparticipateinthevotingprocess womentoparticipateinthevotingprocess by requiring political parties to have at by requiring political parties to have at least30%womennominees. least30%womennominees.

“AdDU can require political party “AdDU can require political party organizations to have a clear women’s to have a women’s agenda,necessitateaspecificpercentage agenda,necessitateaspecificpercentage of women’s voters, and prevent hate of women’s voters, and prevent hate speech,”Maglanaaddedasshepushed speech,”Maglanaaddedasshepushed

for better representation of women in for better representation of women in politics. politics.

In the area of business, AdDU Faculty In the area of business, AdDU Faculty Lecturer Loreen Buenavista stressed the Lecturer Loreen Buenavista stressed the importance of communities, such as importance of communities, such as POWER AdDU, to empower women in POWER AdDU, to empower women in intimidatingenvironments. intimidatingenvironments.

“Find the community that will help you “Find the community that will help you gainconfidence.Havethecouragetoget gainconfidence.Havethecouragetoget yourself into what is uncomfortable to yourself into what is uncomfortable to nurture yourself and grow,” Buenavista nurture yourself and grow,” Buenavista said. said.

Furthermore, Co-Founder and Chief Furthermore, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of CREATELAB Studios Creative Officer of CREATELAB Studios Erica Ingrid Silfverberg encouraged Erica Ingrid Silfverberg encouraged women to pursue their artistic endeavors women to pursue their artistic endeavors persistentlyandbreakbarriers. persistentlyandbreakbarriers.

“If you’re good at what you do, you’re “If you’re good at what you do, you’re undeniably good. Remember to root undeniably good. Remember to root yourself in solid advice and strive to yourself in solid advice and strive to excel,”Silfverbergstatedduringhertalk. excel,”Silfverbergstatedduringhertalk.

On the topic of sports, Alchemist PH

AmbassadorandathleteAngelikaGallego AmbassadorandathleteAngelikaGallego shedlightonthemisconceptionsthatmay shedlightonthemisconceptionsthatmay hinder women from showcasing their hinder women from showcasing their athleticfaculties. athleticfaculties.

“For the women who want to start a “For the women who want to start a fitnessjourney,don’tbeafraidtotry.You fitnessjourney,don’tbeafraidtotry.You can train through self-learning or by can train through self-learning or by tappingafriendthatiskindtoguideyou— tappingafriendthatiskindtoguideyou— eventually, you can learn,” Gallego eventually, you can learn,” Gallego affirmed. affirmed.

Asthefinalguestspeakerforthelocal Asthefinalguestspeakerforthelocal

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 NEWS SECTION

summit, The Nightingale: The Publication Arm of POWER's News Editor Lorrhaine Mae Baintin emphasized that amidst differences in background, women encounter a collective challenge that stemsfrompatriarchalstructures.

“It’s important to acknowledge that despitedifferences,therearestillcommon strugglesthatwecantapintoandbeable toempathize,”Baintinhighlighted.

Thespeakersencouragedwomentobe courageous in taking opportunities and having assertiveness in standing their ground, highlighting the importance of womenembracingtransformationtobreak through gender stereotypes and harness their full potential, paving the way for others.

TheeventwasconductedonMarch16,

HerPOWERseries shinesspotlighton women's accomplishments

Jullia Laurice Bantiding by

Spotlighting female student leaders in theUniversity,POWERAdDUreleasedthe HerPOWER Series, a short production following their journey in their academic andpersonalpursuits.

HerPOWER Executive Producer Paula Isabelle Manuel shared that the series aimed to foster inclusivity by providing a platformforwomentosharetheirstories.

"TheHerPOWERSeriesdrawsinspiration from the gender equality movement and aims to address representation by amplifyingwomen'svoices,"Manuelsaid.

2024, in the Bapa Benny Tudtud Auditorium and was attended by participants from Ateneo de Davao University, representatives of San Pedro College Senior High School, and representativesofvariousorganizationsin DavaoCity.

Manuelsharedthatinmakingtheseries, their priority was highlighting different stories from diverse backgrounds of womenonthecampus.

"We actively seek out women from various backgrounds, highlighting those who are knowledgeable about a certain topic. So, we aim to include women who representamixoftheseidentities,mayit be in leadership, women in business, LGBTQ+, etc., to reflect the richness of humanexperience,"Manuelsaid.

Duringthefirstepisode,theproduction featured the previous and current presidents of POWER AdDU, Alexei Denisse Aman and Jhoanna Grace Cayanan. The succeeding episodes also featured various women, such as cluster representatives, women in maledominatedprograms,andfemalebusiness ownersandstudententrepreneurs.

Furthermore,Manueldiscussedthe

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 NEWS SECTION

future of the HerPOWER series, expanding outreach efforts for greater opportunities through collaborations and exploring more intersectional topics to impact a broader audience.

"We envision several future plans and developments aimed at further amplifying women's voices and fostering meaningful dialogue. We aim to expand our outreach efforts to ensure even greater diversity and representation among our interviewees, reachingouttounderrepresentedcommunitiesandmarginalizedgroups,"Manuelsaid.

POWERCommuneparticipatesin SAMAHANlegislativecapacitybuilding

Claresse Artiaga by

Representatives from the legislative sector of POWER AdDU attended the ENGAGE, ENACT, EN BLOC - The SAMAHAN Student Assembly Legislative Capacity Building: A Technical Writing & Parliamentary Procedures Workshop last September9,2023.

Dedicatedtoempoweringthelegislative arm of various student organizations, the workshop was organized to aid student leaders in the legislative sectors of their organizations in drafting laws and resolutions addressing student rights issues.

AccordingtoSwyhtReynaLumongsod, a member of POWER Commune and one of POWER AdDU's representatives who attendedtheworkshop,theeventhelped her learn practical applications in student assembly formalities and law-making proceduresintheUniversity.

"Beingpresentattheevent,wehadthe privilegetohearfromspeakerswhowere once part of the student assembly. I've learned the objectives and roles of all people involved in law-making and the procedures in handling resolutions," Lumongsodshared.

DirectorofAteneoPublicInterestand Legal Advocacy Center (APILA) and AssistanttotheUniversityPresidentfor Advocacy & Legal Affairs Atty. Romeo Cabarde Jr., one of the workshop's speakers, emphasized that student leaders have the power to create change within their work and the Universitycommunity.

Furthermore,theSAMAHANOfficeof the Vice-President (OVP) and the Sangunniang Kabataan ng Davao Lungsod encouraged this capacitybuilding scheme to prepare students and develop their knowledge and skills in the legislative procedures, as well as empower their development as sui generisleaders.

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AdDUorgslaunchWomen'sGallery WalkduringReproductiveHealth Month

Gwen Stefanie Etang by

II

ncelebrationofReproductiveHealth ncelebrationofReproductiveHealth Month,theSAMAHANDepartmentof Month,theSAMAHANDepartmentof Campaigns and Advocacies (DCA) Campaigns and Advocacies (DCA) launched launched ADYA 2023: Women’s ADYA 2023: Women’s Gallery Walk Gallery Walk in partnership with the in partnership with the POWER AdDU, Nursing Student POWER AdDU, Nursing Student Executive Council, Ateneo Libulan Executive Council, Ateneo Libulan Circle,andAdDUCollegeandWellness Circle,andAdDUCollegeandWellness CenterlastSeptember25,2023. CenterlastSeptember25,2023.

Thisprojectcenteredononeofthis Thisprojectcenteredononeofthis year's AdvocaSix pillars of Holistic year's AdvocaSix pillars of Holistic Health and SOGIESC, aimed to Health and SOGIESC, aimed to empower Ateneans by spreading empower Ateneans by spreading sexual health awareness and sexual health awareness and dismantling existing stigmas on dismantling existing stigmas on commonreproductivediseases. commonreproductivediseases.

In an interview, POWER AdDU In an interview, POWER AdDU President Alexei Denisse Aman President Alexei Denisse Aman highlighted the value of women's highlighted the value of women's sexual health and the significance of sexual health and the significance of addressingtheissuespresent. addressingtheissuespresent.

“It'simportantbecausemorethan “It'simportantbecausemorethan the present inequalities we face in the present inequalities we face in different contexts, these issues are different contexts, these issues are sometimes overlooked, which is a sometimes overlooked, which is a dangerousthing,"Amansaid. dangerousthing,"Amansaid.

Aman added that the lack of Aman added that the lack of awareness among the general awareness among the general population is contributing to the population is contributing to the pressingnatureoftheseissues,citing pressingnatureoftheseissues,citing shortcomingsintheprimaryeducation shortcomingsintheprimaryeducation curriculumasasignificantfactorinthe curriculumasasignificantfactorinthe lack of proper sex education in the lack of proper sex education in the country. country.

ADYA 2023 aims to amplify ADYA 2023 aims to amplify Ateneans' voices in advancing the Ateneans' voices in advancing the University's commitment to serving University's commitment to serving MindanaoandthePhilippines,fostering MindanaoandthePhilippines,fostering a more inclusive society for Filipino a more inclusive society for Filipino women. women.

TheWomen'sGalleryWalkwas TheWomen'sGalleryWalkwas heldattheArrupeHallEntrance,where heldattheArrupeHallEntrance,where posters and infographics on posters and infographics on reproductive health and sexually reproductive health and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were transmitted infections (STIs) were showcased, encouraging active showcased, encouraging active student engagement and student engagement and conversations between those who conversations between those who visitedthedisplay. visitedthedisplay.

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Feature Feature Sec Secttion ion

Beyond the Headlines

The Struggle ofWomenin the Israel-Palestine War

Andrea Ma. Isabelle Colis by

midstthecurrentlandscapebetween midstthecurrentlandscapebetween Israel and Palestine, the multifaceted Israel and Palestine, the multifaceted issuehashadasignificantimpactonthe issuehashadasignificantimpactonthe lives of women, impacting their safety, lives of women, impacting their safety, fundamental human rights, and fundamental human rights, and opportunities. Not only has this resulted opportunities. Not only has this resulted in the loss of many lives and numerous in the loss of many lives and numerous injuries, it has also left those affected injuries, it has also left those affected devastated. The violence and instability devastated. The violence and instability have also brought an atmosphere filled have also brought an atmosphere filled with dread and uncertainty, further with dread and uncertainty, further exacerbating already present issues of exacerbating already present issues of gender inequality and thus leaving gender inequality and thus leaving women the most susceptible to the women the most susceptible to the obstructiveeffectsofthisgenocide. obstructiveeffectsofthisgenocide.

AsofMarch21,atleast31,988people AsofMarch21,atleast31,988people —including almost 13,000 children and —including almost 13,000 children and 8,400 women—have died in Gaza alone 8,400 women—have died in Gaza alone asaresultoftherecentescalation,while asaresultoftherecentescalation,while more than 74,188 have been injured. In more than 74,188 have been injured. In the occupied West Bank, the genocide the occupied West the genocide hasalsocausedmorethan4,650injuries hasalsocausedmorethan4,650injuries and at least 442 deaths, including 116 and at least 442 deaths, including 116 children.OverhalfofGaza'shomeshave children.OverhalfofGaza'shomeshave been destroyed or damaged, hospitals been destroyed or damaged, hospitals and educational institutions have been and educational institutions have been harmed, and vital infrastructure, harmed, and vital infrastructure, including groundwater wells and places including groundwater wells and places of worship, have been disrupted by the of worship, have been disrupted by the violence. violence.

Thedailystruggle:navigatingtheirlife

For these women, the ongoing For these women, the ongoing genocide affects every aspect of their genocide affects every aspect of their daily lives. daily lives. Whether it is navigating Whether it is navigating through military checkpoints or fearing through military checkpoints or fearing for the safety of their children amidst for the safety of their children amidst escalating violence, their existence is escalating violence, their existence is defined by uncertainty and adversity. defined by uncertainty and adversity. The constant threat of displacement The constant threat of displacement looms large, with homes demolished looms large, with homes demolished andfamiliestornapartintheblinkofan andfamiliestornapartintheblinkofan eye. eye.

Thewarhascontinuouslycontributed Thewarhascontinuouslycontributed to the present difficult circumstances to the present difficult circumstances these women are in, resulting in an these women are in, resulting in an ongoing serious humanitarian crisis; the ongoing serious humanitarian crisis; the violence and pervasive gender violence and pervasive gender discrimination brought upon call for their discrimination brought upon call for their special needs and vulnerabilities to be special needs and vulnerabilities to be met. Additionally, protection is harder to met. Additionally, protection is harder to come by, significantly affecting women come by, significantly affecting women from various positions. The violence has from various positions. The violence has notleftanywomanunscathed;fromolder notleftanywomanunscathed;fromolder womentothosewithdisabilities,thewar womentothosewithdisabilities,thewar has not shown any mercy. Furthermore, has not shown any mercy. Furthermore, sanitaryfacilities,food,water,andshelter sanitaryfacilities,food,water,andshelter are all limited, further contributing to the are all further contributing the hardships and difficulties these women hardships and difficulties these women face. face.

Moreover,theviolenceandhumanrights Moreover,theviolenceandhumanrights

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A A

Graphics by Bea Janine Tupas

violationshavehadadevastatingimpact violationshavehadadevastatingimpact on the reproductive health and rights, on the reproductive health and rights, physicalintegrity,anddignityofwomen physicalintegrity,anddignityofwomen and children. The urgent need for and children. The urgent need for accountability and justice is called upon accountability and justice is called upon bythemanyreportsofatrocities,which bythemanyreportsofatrocities,which range from attacks on health range from attacks on health infrastructures, restrictions on access to infrastructures, restrictions on access to essential supplies, and many cases of essential supplies, and many cases of sexual violence. Additionally, the UN sexual violence. Additionally, the UN Special Rapporteur reports that the Special Rapporteur reports that the ongoing war has disregarded ongoing war has disregarded international treaties and human rights international treaties and human rights norms. norms.

In order to address the humanitarian In order to address the humanitarian crisis, further efforts must be crisis, further efforts must be implemented. implemented. Simple access to essential Simple access to essential services and the observance of human services and the observance of human rights standards have the extensive rights standards have the extensive capability to change things for many, capability to change things for many, especially women. especially women. Gender-responsive Gender-responsive humanitarian aid tailored to their needs humanitarian aid tailored to their needs also allows for the mitigation of the also allows for the mitigation of the impactthissocialissuehasonwomen. impactthissocialissuehasonwomen.

Looking ahead: advancing peace and Looking ahead: advancing peace and fightforhumanrights fightforhumanrights

Regardless of the complexity and Regardless of the complexity and ingrained character of the situation, it is ingrained character of the situation, it is imperative to advance peace and fight imperative to advance peace and fight for the rights of everyone, most for the rights of everyone, most particularlywomen. particularlywomen.

As the Israel-Palestine war persists, As the Israel-Palestine war persists, the voices of the women must be the voices of the women must be amplified and their rights safeguarded. amplified and their rights safeguarded. By addressing the intersecting By addressing the intersecting challenges they face, it is important to challenges they face, it is important to work towards a future where every work towards a future where every single individual in the region can live single individual in the region can live with dignity, security, and equality and with dignity, security, and equality and haveajustandlastingresolutiontothis haveajustandlastingresolutiontothis longstandingfight. longstandingfight.

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Graphics by Bea Janine Tupas

The Deepfake Epidemic: The Deepfake Epidemic:

Nothing quite dehumanizes a woman's othing quite dehumanizes a woman's psyche like the feeling of being stripped psyche like the feeling of being stripped nakedinfrontofthousands,ifnotmillions, nakedinfrontofthousands,ifnotmillions, ofpeople.Despiteitbeingjustadeepfake ofpeople.Despiteitbeingjustadeepfake of her body, it feels pretty jarring to see of her body, it feels pretty jarring to see your likeness being used for sexual your likeness being used for sexual gratification.Itisatoolthatdegradesnot gratification.Itisatoolthatdegradesnot only the sanctity of womanhood but also only the sanctity of womanhood but also strips them of their essence as well. It is strips them of their essence as well. It is dehumanizing, malevolent, and downright dehumanizing, malevolent, and downright evil. evil.

Uninhibited ideas can fester in a Uninhibited ideas can fester in a human's mind if a window of opportunity human's mind if a window of opportunity ispresented.‘Nudify’isanapplicationthat ispresented.‘Nudify’isanapplicationthat utilizes artificial intelligence to undress utilizes artificial intelligence undress women by fabricating media, resulting in women by fabricating media, resulting in non-consensual pornography. The rise of non-consensual pornography. The rise of apps like these is a testament to how apps like these is a testament to how deepfakeappscangainpopulartraction deepfakeappscangainpopulartraction

because of faces obtained from a myriad because of faces obtained from a myriad of pictures from a woman of their of pictures from a woman of their choosing, it eats away the autonomy a choosing, it eats away the autonomy a womanhasoverherlikenessandidentity. womanhasoverherlikenessandidentity.

Considering the fact that our faces serve

Considering the fact that our faces serve as our identity markers in this world, as our identity markers in this world, victims of this heinous act can often feel of heinous act can often asiftheyarepersonallyviolated. asiftheyarepersonallyviolated.

Unveilingthedarkside Unveilingthedarkside

In a culture that glorifies voyeuristic In a culture that glorifies voyeuristic media and sensationalizes the media and sensationalizes the objectification of women, apps like objectification of women, apps like ‘Nudify’ find fertile ground to thrive. The ‘Nudify’ find fertile ground to thrive. The most vulnerable, however, are those in most vulnerable, however, are those in the limelight. "The internet is just another the limelight. "The internet is just another place where sex sells, and vulnerable place where sex sells, and vulnerable people are preyed upon," says Scarlett people are preyed upon," says Scarlett Johansson, who is arguably one of the Johansson, who is arguably one of the mostsexualizedactressesofourtime,in mostsexualizedactressesofourtime,in.. ..

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

Graphics by Christine Bustamante Aldianne Champagne Tamayo by

her interview with her interview with the Washington Post. the Washington Post. KristenBell,knownforhernotablerolein KristenBell,knownforhernotablerolein TheGoodPlaceandmajorrolesinafew TheGoodPlaceandmajorrolesinafew Disney films, is no stranger to deepfake. Disney films, is no stranger to deepfake. "We're having this gigantic conversation "We're having this gigantic conversation about consent, and I don't consent, so about consent, and I don't consent, so that's why it's not okay," she told Vox. that's why it's not okay," she told Vox. "Evenifit'slabeledas'Thisisnotactually "Evenifit'slabeledas'Thisisnotactually her,' it's hard to think about that. I wish her,' it's hard to think about that. I wish that the internet were a little bit more that the internet were a little bit more responsibleandalittlebitkinder." responsibleandalittlebitkinder."

Deepfakescanalsotakeahugemental Deepfakescanalsotakeahugemental toll on its victims, as it causes emotional toll on its victims, as it causes emotional scarsthatcanlastalifetime.SweetAnita, scarsthatcanlastalifetime.SweetAnita, apopularYouTubestreamer,uploadedan apopularYouTubestreamer,uploadedan emotional video about her experience emotional video about her experience where she said, "It has all the same where she said, "It has all the same consequences of revenge porn, and so consequences of revenge porn, and so now I will be living those consequences now I will be living those consequences forachoiceInevermade."Thisvideowas forachoiceInevermade."Thisvideowas inresponsetoafellowstreamershowing inresponsetoafellowstreamershowing his screen with tabs of deepfake his screen with tabs of deepfake pornographyofherandherfellowfemale pornographyofherandherfellowfemale YouTube streamers. The streamer had a YouTube streamers. The streamer had a huge following, which in turn increased huge following, which in turn increased the tide of viewers who flocked to the the tide of viewers who flocked to the site. QTCinderella, who was one of the site. QTCinderella, who was one of the victims alongside Sweet Anita, said, "I victims alongside Sweet Anita, said, "I want to scream. Stop. Everybody want to scream. Stop. Everybody [redacted] stop. Stop spreading it. Stop [redacted] stop. Stop spreading it. Stop advertising it. Stop. Being seen "naked" advertising it. Stop. Being seen "naked" against your will should NOT BE A PART against your will should NOT BE A PART OF THIS JOB." Taylor Swift, Jennifer OF THIS JOB." Taylor Swift, Jennifer Lawrence, and Rana Ayyub, who was Lawrence, and Rana Ayyub, who was famousinIndiaforspeakingoutaboutan famousinIndiaforspeakingoutaboutan eight-year-old rape victim, also became eight-year-old rape victim, also became victims of deepfake pornography. They victims of deepfake pornography. They willbelivingwithaconstantreminderthat willbelivingwithaconstantreminderthat asawomanwithanonlinepresence,they asawomanwithanonlinepresence,they can never escape the exploitation that can never escape the exploitation that galvanizesthemalegaze. galvanizesthemalegaze.

Ordinary women, however, are not Ordinary women, however, are not immune. Francesca Mani, a 15-year-old immune. Francesca Mani, a 15-year-old highschoolstudent,andmorethan30of highschoolstudent,andmorethan30of her peers were also subjected to her peers were also subjected to deepfake porn by the boys at their deepfake porn by the boys at their school. The boys took their photos and school. The boys took their photos and ranthemonthe‘Nudify’app.Thismeans ranthemonthe‘Nudify’app.Thismeans that as long as they have a clear photo, that as long as they have a photo, anyone can be subjected to deepfake anyone can be subjected to deepfake porn. porn.

By perpetuating and normalizing the By perpetuating and normalizing the objectification of women, apps like objectification of women, apps like ‘Nudify’ contribute to a culture of ‘Nudify’ contribute to a culture of misogyny. They reinforce the notion that misogyny. They reinforce the notion that women's bodies are public property. In women's bodies are public property. In September of 2023 alone, it was September of 2023 alone, it was estimated that over 24 million people estimated over 24 million people visited undressing websites. It is no visited undressing websites. It is no surprise that many of these undressing surprise that many of these undressing websites and software only work on websites and software only work on women.Theissueofdeepfakeshasbeen women.Theissueofdeepfakeshasbeen around for a long time; however, around for a long time; however, deepfakes from years ago used to be deepfakes from years ago used to be blurry and can be easily separated from blurry and can be easily separated from reality. Now that the media produced reality. Now that the media produced from these apps are eerily realistic, they from these apps are eerily realistic, they caneasilybeweaponized. caneasilybeweaponized.

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

Online sextortion schemes boomed with Online sextortion schemes boomed with the dawn of deep fake technology, with the dawn of deep fake technology, with female students being their primary female students being their primary target. Feeling helpless, these students target. Feeling helpless, these students tendtoappeasethesescammersinorder tendtoappeasethesescammersinorder fortheirdeepfakesnottogetreleasedto fortheirdeepfakesnottogetreleasedto the public. In addition, news about the public. In addition, news about teenagers creating deep fakes of their teenagers creating deep fakes of their peers has also risen. This deepfake peers has also risen. This deepfake epidemic can serve as a catalyst for epidemic can serve as a catalyst for teenageboystothinkthatsexualizingand teenageboystothinkthatsexualizingand

hold creators and users of such apps hold creators and users of such apps accountable for their actions, as well as accountable for their actions, as well as legislationthatprohibitsthedissemination legislationthatprohibitsthedissemination of non-consensual intimate imagery. of non-consensual intimate imagery. Francesca Mani's advocacy for better AI Francesca Mani's advocacy for better AI laws, as well as Taylor Swift's influence, laws, as well as Taylor Swift's influence, helpedgaintractionfortheanti-deepfake helpedgaintractionfortheanti-deepfake movement. For centuries, women have movement. For centuries, women have been treated as mere objects and child- been treated as mere objects and childbearers, which contributes to the over- bearers, which contributes to the oversexualization of women. Centuries worth sexualization of women. Centuries worth

....

exploitingtheirfemalepeersissomething exploitingtheirfemalepeersissomething they can get away with unscathed. This they can get away with unscathed. This mindset would lead to catastrophic mindset would lead to catastrophic consequences as another generation of consequences as another generation of men would grow up believing in male men would grow up believing in male chauvinism, repeating the cycle over and chauvinism, repeating the cycle over and overagain. overagain.

Combatingthespread Combatingthespread

Addressing the proliferation of apps

Addressing the proliferation of apps like‘Nudify’requireslegalframeworksto like‘Nudify’requireslegalframeworksto

of prejudice against women can be of prejudice against women can be complex to undo in just a span of a few complex to undo in just a span of a few years, primarily if it has been deeply years, primarily if it has been deeply rootedinculturesandsocieties. rootedinculturesandsocieties.

Ultimately, this issue serves as a stark Ultimately, this issue serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for reminder of the ongoing struggle for genderequalityinthedigitalageandthe genderequalityinthedigitalageandthe urgent need for collective action to urgent need for collective action to dismantle systems of oppression that dismantle systems of oppression that perpetuatetheobjectificationofwomen. perpetuatetheobjectificationofwomen.

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

Graphics by Andree Sibonga

Reproductive Health Rights Reproductive Health Rights in the PH: in the PH:Breaking Barriers Breaking Barriers

WMegan Andrea Fuentes by

......omen have come a long way throughout history, and March makes no difference as women worldwide continue to strive and break through barriers. Though conservative in its roots, the Philippineshasmadespecificstepsinthe recent decade towards fostering empowerment amongst women, with variouseventsandindividualsshapingthe landscapeofwomen'sreproductiverights inthecountry,navigatingthroughcultural barriers and setbacks. As we celebrate International Women's Month, Filipino women embrace their identities and advocate for their rights, collectively dismantlingbarriersandforgingpathways towardprogressandequality.

Did you know that abortion has been deemed illegal in the Philippines for over 150 years already? Under Spanish rule, the Philippines has made the procedure illegal since 1870, and change does not seem to be near the horizon anytime soon.Women'sreproductivehealthrights for Filipinas have seen better days since then with the birth of the RH Bill, later becoming the RH Law - RA No. 10354, once passed in 2012. The RH Law currentlyadvocatesfor12mainelements that encompass reproductive health standards that every Filipino should be abletoaccess.SomekeyfacetsoftheRH Law include allowing Filipinos to have easy access to reproductive health servicesandtreatment-tocontraceptives andtherighttodecideforthemselves.

Despitetheexistenceofsuchalawin the Philippines, why is it that after all these years, abortion is still pushed back bylawmakers?Therearealotoffactors that make adequate reproductive healthcare challenging to attain for Filipinas. Nagai et al. (2019) found that even seven years after passing the RH Law, Filipinas could still not get the appropriate counseling and consultation services to which they are entitled, despite its availability. This inaccessibility owes most of it to the social and ideological norms that continue to exist and persist in the country. We see how ideological biases contribute to this probleminsituationssuchaswhenthenMayor José "Lito" Atienza banned contraceptives in Manila City in the year 2000.Weseefurtherbiasthathinders .

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

Illustration by Ysa Costanemo

progressofreproductivehealthandrights in the Philippines through the strong pushback and disagreement of the Catholic Church towards the passing of theRHLaw,leadingtoarestrainingorder on the law and hindering it from being fully implemented. Human Rights Watch (2023) said that the held-back implementationoftheRHLawhasledto thelackofaccesstoservicesforthosein the lower class, making it virtually impossibleforthemtogainaccesstobirth control options and family planning. Guttmacher Institute, an international research and policy organization committed to advancing sexual and reproductivehealthandrightsworldwide, and Likhaan, a non-government

lackofaccesstoreliableknowledge,has led to over 50% of the unplanned pregnanciesinthePhilippines(2010).

Despite all the hurdles, taboos, and walls that stand in the way of Filipinos having access to quality reproductive health practices, many still rise to the challenge and fight the battle against those who oppose it. Several organizationshavesincebeenestablished infavoroftheRHLawandthelegalization of safe abortion in pursuit of providing Filipinos,especiallyFilipinas,thechoiceto decide what they want for their bodies. Organizations like Amnesty International state that individuals should be allowed thechoicetochoosewhatisbestfortheir own health, body, sexuality, and reproductive life without fear, coercion,

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

byYsaCostanemo

Graphics

We need to recognize the ongoing struggle for reproductive rights in the Philippines. However, while hurdles remain, it is important to commemorate still the tiny victories and advancements achieved in recent years. Together, we can create a future where every Filipino woman, man, and child has the agency and access to the necessary resources and services for a healthy and empoweredlife. abortion for the benefit and safety of women because, without it, countless livesareputatunnecessaryriskbothdue to the risk of unsafe abortions and the lackthereofoftheprocedureasanoption for women at risk. Organizations fight tirelessly for what the United Nations considers a primary need that every individual should have access toregardlessofgenderoreconomicstatusto ensure a brighter future and equal opportunities for everyone to have a greaterqualityoflifethanwithout.

Thejourneytowardssecuringadequate reproductivehealthrightsforallFilipinos, especially women, has not been without its challenges. Women have found themselvesinapositionwheretheyface societaltaboosandlegalwallsthathinder their access to comprehensive reproductivehealthcareandconsultation, includingsafeabortionprocedures.Notall is grim for those seeking to have access to various reproductive health services withthepassingofRA10354,alsoknown astheRHLawof2012.Thelaw'spassing started the allowance for access to reproductive services, the widespread availability of reliable information for everyone, and the provision of help for those who need it. The resilience and determination of advocates, organizations, and activists continue to drive the fight for reproductive rights forward.

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

sHIFTING TIDES: tHE EVOLUTION sHIFTING TIDES: tHE EVOLUTION OF OF in the digital age in the digital age Feminism Feminism

Alex Andrea Gumera by

hen people think of feminism, one hen people think of feminism, one would always assume the image of a would always assume the image of a strong woman trudging her way through strong woman trudging her way through societal norms, climbing mountains, societal norms, climbing mountains, breaking barriers, and radically speaking breaking barriers, and radically speaking forwhatshebelievesisright. forwhatshebelievesisright.

Before its surge, feminism had always Before its surge, feminism had always beencorrelatedwiththe‘girlbossculture’ beencorrelatedwiththe‘girlbossculture’ and how women are supposed to be and how women are supposed to be capable of doing things men can. For so capable of doing things men can. For so long,thenarrativehasshiftedtotheidea long,thenarrativehasshiftedtotheidea that women sought equality for the sake that women sought equality for the sake of validation. However, with the growing of validation. However, with the growing emergenceofsocialmedia,thetermitself emergenceofsocialmedia,thetermitself isviewedandinterpreteddifferentlyfrom isviewedandinterpreteddifferentlyfrom person to person, ultimately transforming person to person, ultimately transforming itintowhatweknowofittoday. itintowhatweknowofittoday.

Feminismasamultifacetedconcept

Feminism is no linear framework; it is Feminism is no linear framework; it is not a closeted term subjected to women not a closeted term subjected to women who are ‘strong’ enough to counter who are ‘strong’ enough to counter stereotypes. Such a definition only brings stereotypes. Such a definition only brings dirt to where feminism stands—a shame dirt to where feminism stands—a shame on its multiplicity—undermining its on its multiplicity—undermining its complexity and diversity by viewing it complexity and diversity by viewing it through a simplistic lens. At its core, the through a simplistic lens. At its core, the movement extends beyond, and its movement extends beyond, and its essence lies in challenging prejudice and essence lies in challenging prejudice and dismantling the notion that feminism dismantling the notion that feminism advocates merely for female superiority advocates merely for female superiority andthelike. andthelike.

Over the years, the image of feminism Over the years, the image of feminism has hinged on the idea that women are has hinged on the idea that women are equallycapableofdoingwhatmencan; equallycapableofdoingwhatmencan;

theycanadapttothehustleandforgean theycanadapttothehustleandforgean image of stability and power that image of stability and power that supposedly breaks down the traditional supposedly breaks down the traditional patriarchal norm. The 'girlboss culture,’ patriarchal norm. The 'girlboss culture,’ then, is the direct manifestation of this then, is the direct manifestation of this ideal, pushing women's success to be ideal, pushing women's success to be contingent on their achievements being contingent on their achievements being equally competitive to that of men. While equally competitive to that of men. While theconcepthadbeentheperfectidealto theconcepthadbeentheperfectidealto bring light to the strengths of women in bring light to the strengths of women in this society, it also came with its own this society, it also came with its own demerits that equally tarnish feminism as demerits that equally tarnish feminism as muchasitbringslighttoit. muchasitbringslighttoit.

Because of the ‘girlboss culture,’ Because of the ‘girlboss culture,’ women'sachievementsaredefinedsolely women'sachievementsaredefinedsolely by their ability to be the epitome of by their ability to be the epitome of strength. Being a business owner or a strength. Being a business owner or a CEOistheultimateaccoladeforawoman, CEOistheultimateaccoladeforawoman, considering that it was assumed that you considering that it was assumed that you hadcompetedequallywithmenonequal hadcompetedequallywithmenonequal ground. Because of that, it had led ground. Because of that, it had led feminism to be designated for only those feminism to be designated for only those who had the privilege and to those who who had the privilege and to those who have the ability to adapt to the hustle, have the ability to adapt to the hustle, setting aside those women whose acts setting aside those women whose acts areequallyhonorabledespitenotworking areequallyhonorabledespitenotworking fromninetofive. fromninetofive.

Ascatalystforfeministdiscourse

But as feminism evolves, so does its

But as feminism evolves, so does its portrayalinsociety,whichisinfluencedby portrayalinsociety,whichisinfluencedby shiftingculturalnormsandtheemergence shiftingculturalnormsandtheemergence ofnewplatformsfordiscourse. ofnewplatformsfordiscourse.

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

The advancement of communication

The advancement of communication technology, particularly social media, has technology, particularly social media, has allowed the reshaping of the narrative of allowed the reshaping of the narrative of feminism, offering a space where diverse feminism, offering a space where diverse voices can intersect and challenge voices can intersect and challenge traditional perceptions. In contrast to the traditional perceptions. In contrast to the rigid confines of the 'girlboss culture,’ rigid confines of the 'girlboss culture,’ social media platforms have provided a social media platforms have provided a platform for amplifying marginalized platform for amplifying marginalized voices and highlighting the multifaceted voices and highlighting the multifaceted nature of feminist activism. Now, the nature of feminist activism. Now, the definition of feminism expands beyond definition of feminism expands beyond the narrow parameters, embracing the narrow parameters, embracing intersectionality and recognizing the intersectionality and recognizing the interconnectednessofgender,race,class, interconnectednessofgender,race,class, sexuality, and other facets of identity. sexuality, and other facets of identity. Shaping the movement while Shaping the movement while redeveloping people's consciousness, redeveloping people's consciousness, socialmediahasprovenitselftobeoneof socialmediahasprovenitselftobeoneof the most instrumental weapons for the most instrumental weapons for contemporaryfeminism. contemporaryfeminism.

Such advancement also serves as a Such advancement also serves as a ground for the voices of the unheard, ground for the voices of the unheard, thosewhowanttofurthercontributetheir thosewhowanttofurthercontributetheir voices for change. This digital landscape voices for change. This digital landscape has not only democratized the has not only democratized the conversation but also empowered conversation but also empowered individualstochallengesystemicinjustices individualstochallengesystemicinjustices and advocate for a more equitable and advocate for a more equitable society.Becauseofitsplatformtoamplify society.Becauseofitsplatformtoamplify the voices of those once unheard, the the voices of those once unheard, the media's accessibility has already deeply media's accessibility has already deeply rooted itself into one of the reasons for rooted itself into one of the reasons for the success and growth of today's the success and growth of today's feminism. feminism.

While technology has permeated the While technology has permeated the voice of feminism, such accessibility has voice of feminism, such accessibility has also brought danger to those who wish also brought danger to those who wish harm. It undermines the movement, harm. It undermines the movement, making it more susceptible to online making it more susceptible to online harassment and disinformation, constant harassment and disinformation, constant self-comparisons and body image issues self-comparisons and body image issues driven by societal beauty standards, and driven by societal beauty standards, and weakened critical thinking. This then weakened critical thinking. This then serves as a calling for the movement to serves as a calling for the movement to remain cautious about the harms that will remain cautious about the harms that will continually strike the movement moving continually strike the movement moving forward. forward.

Adouble-edgedsword

However,asmuchasithasbecomean However,asmuchasithasbecomean intrinsic part of that success, the media's intrinsic part of that success, the media's accessibilityhasalsopresenteditselfasa accessibilityhasalsopresenteditselfasa double-edgedswordthatcouldendanger double-edgedswordthatcouldendanger themovementwithoutproperknowledge. themovementwithoutproperknowledge.

Social media has undeniably become a Social media has undeniably become a tool for feminist discourse that assisted tool for feminist discourse that assisted feminism in pushing forward in response feminism in pushing forward in response to the contemporary world. Embracing to the contemporary world. Embracing the innate uniqueness in each and every the innate uniqueness in each and every womanhasbreachedthemovementmore womanhasbreachedthemovementmore than just the chambers of what feminism than just the chambers of what feminism is defined by many before. Through the is defined by many before. Through the amplification of voices, horizons have amplification of voices, horizons have been broadened, forming a platform for been broadened, forming a platform for women to share their collective women to share their collective experiencesandusethistofurthershape experiencesandusethistofurthershape contemporaryfeminism.Itformsfeminism contemporaryfeminism.Itformsfeminism for what it is, the cumulative and unified for what it is, the cumulative and unified memoirofallwomen. memoirofallwomen.

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

Inthesummerof2022,Iwasscrolling nthesummerof2022,Iwasscrolling through my TikTok’s through my TikTok’s For You For You hooked by hooked by theblessedbhie's theblessedbhie's line,"Hey,bestie!Takewhatresonates, line,"Hey,bestie!Takewhatresonates, leave what doesn't; you may take leave what doesn't; you may take nothingatall.Ididnotmanifestforyou nothingatall.Ididnotmanifestforyou toseethisonyourForYoupage,soif toseethisonyourForYoupage,soif you ever come across this video, this you ever come across this video, this may be for you." I had never may be for you." I had never understood the point of tarot cards understood the point of tarot cards before, but I was a teenage girl trying before, but I was a teenage girl trying to find a sign of whether I should to find a sign of I should confess to my friend of four years. So, confess to my friend of four years. So, imaginemyshockwhentheLovercard imaginemyshockwhentheLovercard cameout,whichItookasaglaringsign cameout,whichItookasaglaringsign from the universe saying yes, go and from the universe saying yes, go and confessbecauseitwillallend confessbecauseitwillallendwell well

It, in fact, did not end well. In fact, It, in fact, did not end well. In fact, thingsbetweenusended.Atfirst,Iwas thingsbetweenusended.Atfirst,Iwas sitting in a pile of regret, asking sitting in a pile of regret, asking questions such as ‘Why did I do that?’ questions such as ‘Why did I do that?’ and‘WhythehelldidIlistentoavideo and‘WhythehelldidIlistentoavideo with 200,000 likes?’ Yet, it was done, with 200,000 likes?’ Yet, it was done, but my affiliations with tarot flourished but my affiliations with tarot flourished as I shifted through Reddit posts on as I shifted through Reddit posts on howitworksandwhypeoplebelievein howitworksandwhypeoplebelievein

Gwyneth

it. I was attracted to the imagery, the prospect of it. I was attracted to the imagery, the prospect developing psychic abilities to access intuition, and developing abilities to access intuition, and the purpose of understanding the world and, the purpose of understanding the world and, inevitably, the self. I was still a skeptic, but the seeds inevitably, the self. I was still a skeptic, but the seeds of curiosity had been planted, and soon, I bought of curiosity had been and soon, I bought myselfmyfirsttarotcardset. myselfmyfirsttarotcardset.

HowTarot Feeds t HowTarot Feeds t

N by

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

Illustration by Ysa Costanemo

Nicolle Pesidas

the Woman'sSoul the Woman'sSoul

ReconnectingwithAncientTools

Tarot is a deck of seventy-eight cards split into Tarot is a deck of seventy-eight cards split into two categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor two categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana.Thefirsttwenty-twocardsareconsideredto Arcana.Thefirsttwenty-twocardsareconsideredto be the Major Arcana that represent shifts in the be the Major Arcana that represent shifts in the soul's evolution starting from The Fool (0), the main soul's evolution starting from The Fool (0), the main ......

character that begins the journey character that begins the journey througheachcard,learninglifelessons througheachcard,learninglifelessons andmeetingteachersto andmeetingteachersto guidethefool guidethefool up to the completion of the journey up to the completion of the journey withtheWorldCard(XXI).Thesecards withtheWorldCard(XXI).Thesecards representtheprimethemesinfluencing representtheprimethemesinfluencing your life and soul's journey to your life and soul's journey to enlightenment, and drawing them in a enlightenment, and drawing them in a cardreadingmeansthatyouarebeing cardreadingmeansthatyouarebeing called to reflect on the life lessons and called to reflect on the life lessons and themes you are experiencing at this themes you are experiencing at this pointinyourlife. pointinyourlife.

The remaining fifty-six cards are the

The remaining fifty-six cards are the Minor Arcana split into four categories Minor Arcana split into four categories representing different areas of day-to- representing different areas of day-today life issues: the Suit of Batons or day life issues: the Suit of Batons or Wands (Spirit), the Suit of Cups Wands (Spirit), the Suit of Cups (Emotion), the Suit of Swords (Emotion), the Suit of Swords (Thought), and the Suit of Coins (Thought), and the Suit of Coins (Materiality). (Materiality).

The Major and Minor Arcana are The Major and Minor Arcana are interpreted together to convey the interpreted together to convey the situations, problems, and solutions that situations, problems, and solutions that affect the past, present, or future affect the past, present, or future circumstances of the person, the tarot circumstances of the person, the tarot practitioner who may refer to practitioner who may refer to themselves as readers, fortune tellers, themselves as readers, fortune tellers,

......

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

oracles, witches, mystics, consultants, or oracles, witches, mystics, consultants, or even shamans is reading to. It works by even shamans is reading to. It works by dealing with the energy given in the dealing with the energy given in the reading, trusting intuition, and having trusting intuition, and having sufficientknowledgetointerpretthestory sufficientknowledgetointerpretthestory inthetarotcardsselectedbythesoul. inthetarotcardsselectedbythesoul.

Today, tarot users turn to cards to Today, tarot users turn to cards to examinethepresentmorethantopredict examinethepresentmorethantopredict the future, as users see the practice of the future, as users see the practice of tarot as something meditative, a tarot as something meditative, a guidance, and an exercise of intuition. guidance, and an exercise of intuition. Women like Savannah Olsen, the creator Women like Savannah Olsen, the creator ofTheGoodSpirit,aboutiquesellingtarot ofTheGoodSpirit,aboutiquesellingtarot card decks and other spiritual tools, said card decks and other spiritual tools, said thatthepracticeoftarotislikeanactof thatthepracticeoftarotislikeanactof feminismitself,forembracingtheideaof feminismitself,forembracingtheideaof having inner wisdom and tapping into having inner wisdom and tapping into your own magic is a form of your own magic is a form of empowerment.Thepointofusingtarotis empowerment.Thepointofusingtarotis nottouseitforever,buttouseitforthe nottouseitforever,buttouseitforthe duration you need it for and earn duration you need it for and earn guidance and wisdom to listen to what guidance and wisdom to listen to what yoursoultrulyneeds. yoursoultrulyneeds.

Tarot as female empowerment and Tarot as female empowerment and reflection reflection

Like many others, I also began by Like many others, I also began by practicingtheartoftarotonmyself.Likea practicingtheartoftarotonmyself.Likea student thirsty for knowledge, I asked student thirsty for knowledge, I asked more questions and sought more more questions and sought more guidance from these cards—to seek self- guidance from these cards—to seek selfimprovement. What I thought was mere improvement. What I thought was mere curiosity turned into a source of curiosity turned into a source of confidence, empowering me and making confidence, empowering me and making mefeellikeIhaveasenseofcontrolover mefeellikeIhaveasenseofcontrolover

my destiny. In fact, the advice and my destiny. In fact, the advice and warningsfromthetarotreadingsenabled warningsfromthetarotreadingsenabled me to make positive decisions and take me to make positive decisions and take actions that brought me closer to actions that brought me closer to achievingmyambitions. achievingmyambitions.

At first, my tarot reading was a closely At first, my tarot reading was a closely guarded secret. It feels too taboo to say guarded secret. It feels too taboo to say youpracticedivinationwhenothershighly youpracticedivinationwhenothershighly dissuade it. This was my situation until dissuade it. This was my situation until Ateneo announced the trial of face-to- Ateneo announced the trial of face-tofacesummerclasses,whereImetAndrea facesummerclasses,whereImetAndrea Enya Plaza and another classmate in the Enya Plaza and another classmate in the BS Accountancy program. Both have BS Accountancy program. Both have different reasons for getting into tarot. different reasons for getting into tarot. Yet,thecoreofwhytheycontinuedisthe Yet,thecoreofwhytheycontinuedisthe slowlyfadingskepticismturningintoselfslowlyfadingskepticismturningintoselfempowerment as tarot made them more empowerment as tarot made them more empathetic and appreciative of their empathetic and appreciative of their intuition. intuition.

"The tarot reflects the depth of my "The tarot reflects the depth of my femininity,whisperingintuition,andallows femininity,whisperingintuition,andallows me to honor cycles—the waxing and me to honor cycles—the waxing and waning,theseasonsofmysoul.Itreminds waning,theseasonsofmysoul.Itreminds me that vulnerability is strength, intuition me that vulnerability is strength, intuition isn't weakness," shares Andrea Enya isn't weakness," shares Andrea Enya Plaza. Plaza.

Another friend told me, "I used tarot cards because of the overwhelmingly cards because of the overwhelmingly positivefeedbackfromthoseIofferedmy positivefeedbackfromthoseIofferedmy services. Their encouragement motivated services. Their encouragement motivated me to strive harder and give my gift to me to strive harder and give my gift to thoseneedingspiritualguidance.Thereis thoseneedingspiritualguidance.Thereis so much to learn, and I’m grateful for so much to learn, and I’m grateful for stumblinguponthisincrediblejourney.” stumblinguponthisincrediblejourney.”

Another friend told me, "I used tarot

,.... ,....

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

The

May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

Nightingale Issue No. 2

Graphics by Andree Sibonga

Theinterplayoffeministdiscourseand LGBTQ+activismisathrivingspacewhere identities, struggles, and goals come together. The said space is where individualshelmthecomplexintersections ofgender,sexuality,race,class,andother interconnected factors, impacting their livedexperiencesandcollectivestruggles. Comprehending these complexities is necessary for progressing feminist and LGBTQ+ agendas prioritizing inclusivity, equity, and social justice. This dynamic intersection serves as a battleground for standing up against and dismantling systemicinjustices,challengingthestatus quo, and creating new opportunities for liberationandempowerment.Individualsin these movements use campaigns for change, such as artistic expression and digital activism, to amplify marginalized voices,impedeoppressivestructures,and foster resilience in communities. New narratives emerge from these spaces of resistance and resilience, highlighting the experiences and perspectives of those who are frequently marginalized and silenced. By focusing on these voices, feministandLGBTQ+movementsbroaden their understanding of oppression while also deepening their commitment to collectiveliberation,pavingthewayfora morewelcomingandjustfutureforeach andeveryone.

Intersecting Identities: Exploring Intersecting Identities: Exploring and LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ+

Zoexandra Andr by

Unpackingthelayersoflesbianfeminism

Lesbian feminism exists at the Lesbian feminism exists at the crossroads of the intersections between crossroads of the intersections between feminism and the LGBTQ+ community, feminism and the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing the unique challenges that emphasizing the unique challenges that lesbians face as they navigate spaces lesbians face as they navigate spaces dominatedbymen,mayitbeinacademic dominatedbymen,mayitbeinacademic settings or work environments and the settings or work environments and the heteronormative structures present in heteronormative structures present in society.Historically,mainstreamfeminism society.Historically,mainstreamfeminism hasprioritizedheterosexualwomen's hasprioritizedheterosexualwomen's

GraphicsbyYsaCostanemo

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

the Intersection within Feminist the Intersection within Feminist

Movements Movements

experiences and perspectives while experiences and perspectives while ceasing to consider lesbian issues. This ceasing to consider lesbian issues. This erasure manifests itself in a variety of erasure manifests itself in a variety of ways, including a lack of lesbian ways, including a lack of lesbian representationinfeministmovementsand representationinfeministmovementsand insufficient resources for lesbian-specific insufficient resources for lesbian-specific issues like reproductive justice, issues like reproductive justice, harassment in school, and workplace harassment in school, and workplace discrimination. discrimination.

Furthermore, lesbians frequently face Furthermore, lesbians frequently face discriminationandprejudicewithin discriminationandprejudicewithin

LGBTQ+ communities themselves. Despite efforts towards inclusivity, lesbianvoicesmaybeovershadowedby the priorities and narratives of gay men or the broader queer community. Heteronormative attitudes can persist, reinforcing stereotypes and stigmatizing lesbianidentity.

Oneofthemostdifficultchallengesfor lesbian feminists is navigating spaces dominated by men and entrenched in heteronormativity.Thischallengeextends to professional settings, political arenas, and social institutions where patriarchal structures prevail, including school settings. Lesbians may encounter systemic barriers to advancement, unequal pay, and limited leadership opportunities due to their gender and sexualorientation.

Inadditiontoprofessionalspaces,they may grapple with the pressures of conforming to heterosexual norms in social environments. From family gatherings to social events, the expectation of heterosexuality can lead to feelings of isolation and invisibility, exacerbated by the lack of representation of lesbian relationships andexperiencesinmainstreammedia.

Enricuso

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The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

Transstoriesinpageantry

Trans women add another layer of Trans women add another layer of complexitytotheintersectionaldiscourse complexitytotheintersectionaldiscourse of feminism and LGBTQ+ rights, of feminism and LGBTQ+ rights, particularlyindomainssuchaspageantry. particularlyindomainssuchaspageantry.

Inrecentyears,therehasbeensignificant Inrecentyears,therehasbeensignificant progress towards inclusivity and progress towards inclusivity and recognition of trans women in this field, recognition of trans women in this field, albeit with notable challenges and albeit with notable challenges and controversies. controversies.

Inbeautypageants,transwomen,such Inbeautypageants,transwomen,such asAngelaPonce,thefirsttransgenderto asAngelaPonce,thefirsttransgenderto compete in Miss Universe and who also compete in Miss Universe and who also competed at the same time as the competed at the same time as the Philippines'veryownCatrionaGrey,have Philippines'veryownCatrionaGrey,have challenged traditional norms and challenged traditional norms and stereotypes, advocating for greater stereotypes, advocating for greater visibility and acceptance. Despite facing visibility and acceptance. Despite facing resistance and discrimination, trans resistance and discrimination, trans women have made progress towards women have made progress towards inclusivity, with several pageants revising inclusivity, with several pageants revising their eligibility criteria to include their eligibility criteria to include participantsofallgenderidentities. participantsofallgenderidentities.

Lesbian and trans women's struggles

Lesbian and trans women's struggles intersect with other forms of oppression, intersect with other forms of oppression, such as race, class, disability, and such as race, class, disability, and nationality. The concept of intersecting nationality. The concept of intersecting emphasizestheimportanceofaddressing emphasizestheimportanceofaddressing the compounding effects of merging the compounding effects of merging identitiesinfeministandLGBTQ+activism. identitiesinfeministandLGBTQ+activism.

Realitiesinthecountry Realitiesinthecountry

Forexample,transwomenofcolormay Forexample,transwomenofcolormay face unique challenges as a result of face unique challenges as a result of racism, transphobia, and misogyny, racism, transphobia, and misogyny, demonstrating the interconnectedness of demonstrating the interconnectedness of oppression.Toeffectmeaningfulchange, oppression.Toeffectmeaningfulchange, inclusive advocacy must center on inclusive advocacy must center on marginalized people's experiences and marginalized people's experiences and voices. voices.

Here in the Philippines, it is fairly

Here in the Philippines, it is fairly common for Filipinos to make fun of common for Filipinos to make fun of lesbians and transgenders despite the lesbians and transgenders despite the widespread of LGBTQ+ members on widespread of LGBTQ+ members on televisionthatstrivetoshinealightonthe televisionthatstrivetoshinealightonthe acceptance of the members of the acceptance of the members of the community. That right there leads us to community. That right there leads us to another fact here in the country: how another fact here in the country: how members of the community are just members of the community are just tolerated here and not accepted—no tolerated and not accepted—no matter how many representations there matter how many representations there are in mainstream Filipino media. A are in mainstream Filipino media. A handful of individuals appear to have handful of individuals appear to have internal homophobia, which is precisely internal homophobia, which is precisely why lesbians and trans women continue why lesbians and trans women continue to receive prejudiced treatment in the to receive prejudiced treatment in the country,whichfurtherhighlightstheneed country,whichfurtherhighlightstheneed for more representation of LGBTQ+ for more representation of LGBTQ+ membersinthefeministdiscourse. membersinthefeministdiscourse.

The intersection of lesbian feminism, The intersection of lesbian feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, and trans-inclusive LGBTQ+ rights, and trans-inclusive advocacy provides fertile ground for advocacy provides fertile ground for understandingandaddressingthediverse understandingandaddressingthediverse struggles of women with different sexual struggles of women with different sexual orientations and gender identities. By orientations and gender identities. By focusing on lesbian and trans voices and focusing on lesbian and trans voices and experiences, both movements can experiences, both movements can become more inclusive and effective in become more inclusive and effective in

.......

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

Graphics by Andree Sibonga

confronting patriarchal, heteronormative, and transphobic structures. Recognizing the intersectional nature of oppression is critical to fostering solidarity and advancing social justice for all people, regardless of gender identityorsexualorientation.

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

Graphics by Christine Bustamante & Andree Sibonga

EMBRACINGFEMALERESILIENCE EMBRACINGFEMALERESILIENCE

EXPLOREDINGIRLINPIECESBY EXPLOREDINGIRLINPIECESBY KATHLEENGLASGOW KATHLEENGLASGOW

I" feelsoincomplete.Idon’tknowwhereall thepiecesofmeare,howtofitthemtogether, orhowtomakethemstick.OrifIevencan.”

Have you ever found yourself in such a situation where you feel incomplete, as if the pieces within you are fragmented and scattered, and you believe nothing or no one could ever put them back together, not even yourself?

Aseventeen-year-oldgirlturnstoself-harm as a means of finding solace from all the suffering she has encountered in life. Struggling with life's challenges and difficulties, she finds herself void of support from those most significant people to her. From losing her best friend due to brain damage to her father taking his own life and her mother being physically abusive and emotionally unavailable, her tough adversities prompt her to hurt herself, masking her emotionalagonywithphysicalpain.

ThisisthesadandpainfulstoryofCharlotte Davis, known as Charlie, in the non-fiction piece written by Kathleen Glasgow entitled 'GirlInPieces.'

If the literature revolves around the traumatic past and self-destruction of a teenagegirl,howisitarecommendableread? Well,Charlie’sstorydoesnotendtragicallyor worsen in the long run. Instead, she seeks to find a way out of all her struggles and does everything she can to pull all the pieces of herself together. Despite indulging in behaviorsthathurtherself,Charlieremains

committedtorecovery,hopefultogetoutof thedarknesssheisin.

Charlie inspires women with her determination and drive to overcome life's adversities. Her journey and progress reflect theresilienceandpowerthatwomenembody as we navigate through challenges. Women trulyareepitomesofempowerment,courage, andlifeitself.Womenaretheultimatefighters oflife.Fromthebattleswesilentlywageand thedailytrialsweconfront,eveninmoments of vulnerability, women shine brightly, like diamonds,sparklingandsheddinglighttothe worldwithourinnerstrengthandbeauty.

Life presents unique challenges for each individual, reflecting the diverse experiences we encounter daily. Despite these difficulties, there is beauty in our perseverance. These challenges serve as invaluable teachers, shapingusintostronger,morecompassionate individuals and gaining a deeper understanding of life’s complexities and our capacitiesforresilience.

Healingandbecomingthebestversionsof ourselveswillnotalwaysbelinearandcannot beattainedovernight;itismarkedbyupsand downs, and there will be progress and setbacks. However, this variation in our experiences signifies endless possibilities for growth and renewal. As we persist, we can graduallymendthebrokenpartsofourselves, echoing the sentiment from the book, "Everythingandeverybodythat'sbustedcan befixed."

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

Elizah Kym Ortiz by

FROMFLICKERSTOFLAMES:THE FROMFLICKERSTOFLAMES:THE

ONSLAUGHTOFONLINEHARASSMENT ONSLAUGHTOFONLINEHARASSMENT AGAINSTFEMALEJOURNALISTS AGAINSTFEMALEJOURNALISTS

The work of a journalist takes an infamously knownloadofresponsibilitiesandanevenmore unfathomable amount of guts. Coming from a country listed as the 8th most dangerous workplace for reporters and journalists, paired with some of the worst records of prosecuting their killings, it rings at its truest now more than ever. In the current age, where journalism has gradually migrated from traditional mediums to onlinespaces,theroleofjournalismcontinuesto retain its necessity. Yet, alongside the advantages and opportunities that the online world provides, journalists, especially female journalists, find themselves subjected to an alarmingsurgeofonlineharassment.

Journalists have always faced scrutiny and criticismfromthepublic,evenwhileinthepursuit of maintaining and preserving their journalistic integrity. Female journalists, however, are faced with more unique and yet still perversely disturbing challenges. Death threats and statements laced with abuse and misogyny are oftendirectedatfemalejournalists,especiallyon online platforms, lacking effective moderation and monitoring of such statements. Journalists arealreadydealingwiththetraditionalchallenges of reportage; now, they have to tread this impending landscape simply because they are women.

Onecanonlyimaginewhattheyhavehadto go through—simply doing their jobs serving society as reporters, all to find messages and comments ranging from personal attacks questioning their credibility to targeted campaignstosilencetheirvoices.

TheFreePressUnlimitedstatesthatthisrangealso covers attacks of sexual harassment, unwanted sexual attention, coercion, discrimination, and gender-based violence—all risks that female journalists face on a scale much larger than male journalists. Because of this, women journalists in severalcountriesfindtheirsafetyandgrowthbeing obstructed—a menacing shadow looming over them,preventingthemfromtakingstepsforward. Theseattacksofharassmentononlineplatforms havebecomemorevisibleandorchestratedsincea decade ago, according to a 2018 poll by the International Women’s Media Foundation and Trollbusters. A study by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) in 2022 revealed that 73% of women journalists reported receiving online harassment on their work. This relentless harassment often extends to the journalists’ families and colleagues. 25% of the female journalists the study questioned added that these online threats have come to fruition—perpetrators didastheysaidtheywould,findingandphysically attackingtheirvictimsintherealworld.

Attacks on female journalists are carried out, either directly or indirectly, on a local level by a varietyofpeople,themajorityofwhomhavesome connection to the government. Owing to the nation's inadequate democratic safeguards, journalists are subjected to politically motivated assaultssuchasonlinesmearcampaignsandlegal harassment.Theescalationoflegalactions,threats, andattacksagainstthePhilippinepresshasmadeit more difficult for many journalists, especially women, to report their stories honestly to their audience.

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

Princess Louise Gracelle Lacorte by

Rappler reporter Pia Ranada is one of the many known female journalists subjected to and affected by politically motivated online harassment. As an open critic of former President Rodrigo Duterte and his administration, messages filled with hate, threats ofsexualharassment,andevenrape,werethrownat Ranada by Duterte’s supporters on multiple online platforms. These threats and their malicious intent eventuallycametoincludeandaffectherfamily.

Suchrelentlessandorganizedflowofharassment that female journalists like Ranada have had to endure can pose catastrophic consequences for not only their careers but also their health. More than a quarterofrespondentsincludedintheUNESCO/ICFJ poll highlighted how their experiences of online harassment had gravely impacted their mental health. The suffering also bleeds into their careers, where they are prompted to self-censor during their reports. Their harrowing experiences have led to some of their voices being snuffed out completely, silenced to the point that it even forces them to abandontheirjobsandleavetheirhomes.

Nearly80%ofrespondentsincludedina2021Pew Research Center survey on online harassment reported that social media companies are doing an incompetent job when it comes to addressing abuse on their platforms despite the implementation of user-protectionmechanisms.Thisfostersthealready existing culture of impunity surrounding the widespread online harassment of female journalists. Newsrooms,socialmediasites,andgovernmentsare among the entities that regularly fall short of their responsibilitytostepin,stop,andpunishsuchabuse. It undermines fundamental democratic ideals, including freedom of expression and media independence, to fail to protect journalists who are subjectedtoretaliationfortheirreporting.

We hear and feel for stories like veteran journalist Julie Alipala, who was labeled a terrorist on a Facebook page run by Duterte supporters after simply doing her job of reporting the truth about an incident in Mindanao involving the bandit gang Abu Sayyaf; for GMA7 reporter Mariz Umali who was wolf-whistled at by Duterte during a press conferenceasaresponsewhenshewastryingtodo her job seriously; for Davao Today reporter Kath Cortez whose equipment was confiscated by a military officer and was banned from reporting an internalrefugeeprotestinMarawi.

While there are many documented cases of harassment we are informed of, what about those who remain unheard and who have been silenced while our attention is elsewhere? Were their perpetrators brought to justice? Uncertainty and anxiety for what the future holds for female journalists continue to fester within the pits of their stomachs, especially now when one can no longer deny that online platforms are considered fundamental to modern-day reportage and journalism.

Still,thereareflickersofhopeinthedarkness.

Veteran journalist Inday Espina-Varona admits to living in fear for simply doing her job, and yet she transcends that fear daily in honor of her commitmenttobeofservicetotheFilipinopeople. “Iamjustoneofthemanyjournaliststhathavebeen a victim of trolling. Reputation destroyed, reputation maligned,” ABS-CBN anchor Karen Davila said, emphasizing the lack of understanding of how the media operates and its value in the democratic landscape. She also called for fellow journalists to becomefearlessinthepursuitofexecutingtheirjobs correctlyandappropriately.

Women have always been known to persevere in the face of adversity. Such stories have been recorded in history, and they continue to fan the flamesofdiscourseandthefightforequality.Women journalists harbor their own stories of perseverance, ofstrength,andofresilience.Itisimperativeforallof us—journalists, activists, policymakers, and citizens— to join forces in condemning online harassment in all itsforms.Wemustdemandaccountabilityfromthose whoseektosilencedissentandupholdthevaluesof respect,dignity,andequalityforall.

In the words of Nobel Prize winner, renowned Filipina journalist, and vocal advocate against online harassment Maria Ressa, "We can't let fear paralyze us.Weneedtoshinethelightbecausethat'stheonly waywecanfightback”.

Thiscalltoactionisacallwemustrespondtoinfull force. Only by converting those flickers to burning flames of light in the darkness can we help carve a future where our fundamental freedoms are defended but also so that journalists, especially our femalejournalists,willnolongerbesilenced.

The Nightingale Issue No. 2 May 2024 FEATURE SECTION

The

Nightingale Issue 2 The Nightingale Issue 2

The Nightingale Issue 2 | News & Feature Section

Editorial Board Editorial Board

Staff Writers Staff Writers

Tableof Contents

Notefrom the Editors

N Neews ws

Sec Secttion ion

POWER AdDU commences second general assembly, highlights org initiatives

POWER AdDU POWER AdDU exudes exudes purple purple for for International International Women's Month Women's Month

POWER AdDU POWER AdDU

Pioneers the Pioneers the #OnWednesdays #OnWednesdays WeWear WeWearPink Pink Movement Movement

POWERAdDU’s FearlesslyFeminist Conference promptsgender equalitydialogues

OnEncouragingWomento OnEncouragingWomento Take Up Space: POWER Take Up Space: POWER AdDU Holds Its First Local AdDU Holds Its First Local Summit Summit

Mikylla Lorraine Labis by

HerPOWERseries shinesspotlighton women's accomplishments

POWERCommuneparticipatesin SAMAHANlegislativecapacitybuilding

AdDUorgslaunchWomen'sGallery WalkduringReproductiveHealth Month

II

Feature Feature Sec Secttion ion

Beyond the Headlines

The Struggle ofWomenin the Israel-Palestine War

The Deepfake Epidemic: The Deepfake Epidemic:

Reproductive Health Rights Reproductive Health Rights in the PH: in the PH:Breaking Barriers Breaking Barriers

sHIFTING TIDES: tHE EVOLUTION sHIFTING TIDES: tHE EVOLUTION OF OF in the digital age in the digital age Feminism Feminism

HowTarot Feeds t HowTarot Feeds t

Nicolle Pesidas

the Woman'sSoul the Woman'sSoul

Intersecting Identities: Exploring Intersecting Identities: Exploring and LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ+

the Intersection within Feminist the Intersection within Feminist

Movements Movements

Realitiesinthecountry Realitiesinthecountry

EMBRACINGFEMALERESILIENCE EMBRACINGFEMALERESILIENCE

EXPLOREDINGIRLINPIECESBY EXPLOREDINGIRLINPIECESBY KATHLEENGLASGOW KATHLEENGLASGOW

FROMFLICKERSTOFLAMES:THE FROMFLICKERSTOFLAMES:THE

ONSLAUGHTOFONLINEHARASSMENT ONSLAUGHTOFONLINEHARASSMENT AGAINSTFEMALEJOURNALISTS AGAINSTFEMALEJOURNALISTS