The Nightingale

BreakingtheSilence:SheddingLightonGenderBasedSexualHarassmentinPublicSpaces

WHAT CAN THE GOVERNMENT DO TO BATTLE THIS ISSUE?

Kathren Vee Padin

Pauline Mae Quesada

NEWS WRITERS

Aurora Edisa Roble

By: Aurora Edisa Roble

Rochelle Francisquete

Social Media Manager

Key Marie Alutaya

Charlaine Anthonette Funcion

Althea Ren'ee Limpao

FEATURE WRITERS

Felia Ross Sichon

Christie Angel Cadiz

Meyrheana Dorothy Gaviola

Samantha Marie Lacuna

LITERARY STAFF

Leih Jocelle

Christine Angela Endrina

Althea Montecillo

Cristobal

GRAPHICS AND LAYOUT

Tricia Janelle Oasan

Mae Mariel Comon

Keathly Shyne Masiglat

Nurhata Misuari

PHOTOJOURNALISTS

Diana Nicole Quilinderino

Adhara Shazny Toyorada

SOCIAL MEDIA STAFF

Ailia Fortuna Rivas

Laura Ann Academia

Divine Villanueva

Angelica Zonio

Andriane Sam Gura

Achieving Gender Equality in Mindanao and Beyond: Mindanaoan Women's Artistic Flair Takes Center Stage at Global Women Empowerment Summit

By: Althea Ren’ee Limpao

Photo Courtesy of: wfpp columbia edu

REVOLUTIONARY VOICES: EXAMINING THE ROLE OF YOUTH ACTIVISM IN CREATING CHANGE

EMPOWERED

NATIONS

REVIVAL OF MANDATORY ROTC: WOMEN, YOUTH GROUPS RAISE CONCERNS

One of the priority legislative agendas of President Marcos is including the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) mandatory for the youth, which was stated in his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) on the 25th of July 2022 The plans to revive mandatory ROTC have then opened the program's controversies from the past

According to Vice President and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sara Duterte, the ROTC program will cover higher or tertiary education students The curriculum will emphasize fundamental military training for national defense readiness, but it also specifies that no student under the age of 18 will directly participate in hostilities.

This prepares the students for national defense, including disaster preparedness and capacity building for risk-related scenarios in which they deem motivating, organizing, training, and mobilizing the students crucial. However, due to past issues that halted the program, numerous oppositions have been reiterated

OPPOSITIONS TO THE REVIVAL OF MANDATORY ROTC

Numerous youth and socio-civic organizations, such as Gabriela Youth, Bahaghari, and many more, have signed a petition against the revival of the mandatory ROTC program

The groups cited the numerous cases of sexual violence during training as evidence that the ROTC program encourages a macho, sexist, homophobic, and violent mentality.

Although the program aims to instill a sense of patriotism and mobilization for national defense preparedness, it has historically resulted in killings and other human rights abuses At least 14 instances of hazing, sexual abuse, physical assault, and murder have been documented by the National Union of Students of the Philippines (NUSP) since 1995

Additionally, though the Department of National Defense had issued a warning on the lack of military people to staff the program, senators are convinced to make the Reserve Officers Training Corps mandatory Col Ronald Jess Alcudia, executive commander of the military's reserve and retiree affairs, claimed that even if ROTC were made optional, there would not be enough employees to staff all of the program's 330,000 units

Following the exposure of the unjust practices that were experienced by some Filipino students in the mandatory ROTC program, the Republic Act 9163, or the National Service Training Program (NSTP) Act, was passed. This gave college students a choice among ROTC, Civil Welfare Training Service (CWTS), and Literacy Training Service (LTS) for the required NSTP program.

In response to the plans to revive the mandatory ROTC, the groups are urging the government to allocate more time for general education courses like social sciences, history, and Filipino. Most importantly, they deemed it essential that in helping the kids build nationalism and patriotism, they urge that the National Service Training Program (NSTP) should be strengthened to better teach young people about human rights, ecological services, comprehensive community service, and disaster preparedness NSTP is currently taught at the tertiary level and seeks to encourage students' involvement in public and civic affairs by fostering nationalism and civic consciousness.

RAISING AWARENESS, ENDING STIGMA: WORLD AIDS DAY 2022

By: Althea Ren’ee Limpao

Every 1st of December, the world commemorates World AIDS Day, and this is to encourage everyone to be globally united in eliminating the discrepancies and inequalities that hinder HIV Testing, prevention, and access to HIV Care. This day also serves as an opportunity for public and private partners to spread awareness about the status of HIV/AIDS prevention, monumentalize those who have died, and celebrate small or big victories such as improving access to treatment and prevention services.

The first World AIDS Day was founded in 1988 and is also the first-ever international day for global health. Since then, the United Nations agencies, governments, and other civil societies have joined together to amplify the call for better access and treatment for HIV. Many awareness-raising activities occur around the globe; people wear a red ribbon which serves as a symbol of awareness and a call for support to people living with HIV, and the people who tested positive for HIV/AIDS are given a chance to voice out the issues that they are experiencing

December 1, 2022 the world commemorated World AIDS Day with the theme, “Putting Ourselves to the Test: Achieving Equity to End HIV.”

As per the World Health Organization (2022), the progress in HIV/AIDS prevention is quite alarming since the numbers have not improved as much as they were expecting it to improve. The WHO calls out all global leaders and citizens to boldly recognize and address the inequalities holding back the progress in ending AIDS; and equalize access to essential HIV services, particularly for children and key populations and their constituents.

The world has been fighting against AIDS for quite some time already, and we only have eight remaining years before the 2030 goal of the United Nations to end AIDS as a universal health threat. Most inequalities preventing people from accessing health care and HIV/AIDS prevention must already be addressed since this is supposed to be eyed as an urgent matter. Indeed, the end of AIDS can only be achieved if everyone has a discourse about the inequalities in HIV/AIDS prevention. Global leaders and health organizations must cooperate and act immediately with accountability, especially since many lives are at stake in this case.

On

On International Human Rights Day, the world stands at a crossroads–celebrating the progress that has been made in protecting and promoting human rights This year's theme, "Recovering Better: Stand Up for Human Rights," highlights the need for a human rights-based approach to the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. The pandemic has exposed and exacerbated preexisting inequalities and discrimination, and governments must ensure that their response and recovery efforts prioritize the human rights of all people, particularly those who are most vulnerable

Thus, around the world, organizations, governments, and individuals came together to raise awareness about human rights violations and advocate for change

In the United States, President Joe Biden issued a statement recognizing the importance of human rights and pledging his administration's commitment to promoting and protecting them. He highlighted the need to address systemic racism, promote LGBTQ+ rights, and support workers' rights

In Europe, several countries held events to mark the occasion, with many focusing on the ongoing refugee crisis In Germany, the government organized a conference to discuss the impact of the pandemic on refugees and asylum-seekers, while in France, activists organized a demonstration in support of refugee rights

In Africa, many countries used the day to raise awareness about issues such as child marriage and female genital mutilation In Nigeria, for example, the government organized a public awareness campaign on child marriage, while in Egypt, activists held a rally to protest against the practice of female genital mutilation.

In Asia, events were held in several countries to raise awareness about the impact of the pandemic on marginalized communities. In India, for example, the government organized a virtual conference to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the LGBTQ+ community, while in Thailand, activists held a rally to demand better healthcare for people living with HIV/AIDS

In Latin America, several countries used the day to call attention to the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, where political instability, economic collapse, and human rights abuses have led to a humanitarian crisis. In Colombia, for example, activists organized a rally to demand that the government do more to support Venezuelan refugees and asylum-seekers

Despite the challenges of the past year, many organizations and individuals have continued to work tirelessly to promote and protect human rights. From fighting against police brutality in the United States to advocating for the rights of refugees in Europe, people around the world are coming together to make a difference

Indeed, governments, civil society, and individuals all have a role to play in advancing human rights Individuals must continue to speak out against abuses and discrimination, hold governments accountable for their actions, and support those who are fighting for their rights.

As the world faces multiple crises, including the pandemic, climate change, and economic inequality, it is more important than ever to ensure that human rights are at the forefront of everyone's response Individuals cannot recover from these crises without addressing the structural inequalities and injustices that underlie them.

FOR WOMEN. BY WOMEN. WITH WOMEN

POWERFUL WOMEN THAT EMPOWERS WOMEN

Last December 2022, the Protection of Women’s Equality and Rights in Ateneo de Davao University launched its second wave of recruitment. As the university’s first-ever women-based organization, it aims to strengthen its advocacy with the old and new members by Building Bridges and Conquering Currents.

Breaking stereotypes and prevailing over fields where women are mostly overlooked has been one of the organization’s main inspiration and drive As women take on various significant societal roles, some challenges come with them. In their advocacy video, POWER AdDU highlighted women ’ s struggles, how women have overcome them, and how the organization will take on the same challenges and empower others to do the same.

In a world where women are restrained, POWER AdDU will start the movement of change at Ateneo de Davao University and bring women together as they dismantle the patriarchy and fight for equality. Together with the pillars of the organization, women from all walks of life and stories will hold hands as they develop a stronger and more welcoming community for women - providing a louder voice and broader reach

ANEMPOWERINGYEARWITHEMPOWEREDVOICES: THE NIGHTINGALE EDITORIAL BOARD '22 - '23

THENightingale: A Publication Arm of Power, POWER AdDU's first publication, introduced their new roster of women responsible for keeping a record of the organization's sentiments and accomplishments The Nightingale is a publication that publishes news and feature articles, as well as literary works

such as poetry and prose concerning women

This publication strives to recognize women's hard work, perseverance, intellect, and originality at the Ateneo de Davao University as part of POWER AdDU's purpose of encouraging women to take up space. In the academic year 2022 to 2023, the editorial board is led by Nicole Gloria and Jan Francisquete, the Editor-in-Chief and Associate Editor, respectively They oversee the departments entirely and ensure good quality articles and write-ups for the publication.

The departments of The Nightingale comprise news, feature, literary, photojournal, graphics and layout, and social media managing departments. Kathren Padin leads the news department as the News Editor Along with the news writers Charlaine Funcion, Althea Limpao, and Aurora Roble, they are expected to produce articles that focus on the achievements of the organization, events that tackle women empowerment, and issues concerning women.

For the feature department, Ellyana Du serves as the Feature Editor and takes charge of editing the articles of the feature writers, Christie Cadiz, Jath Dela Peña, Meyrheana Gaviola, Samantha Lacuna, and Felia Sichon. They are responsible for researching and writing feature articles similar to cover stories. On the other hand, the literary writing department is responsible for creating short stories, essays, poems, and the like This department is composed of their Literary Head, Andree Sibonga, and multiple literary writers, Christine Endrina, Althea Montecillo, and Leih Solidad.

Furthermore, the photojournalists who are in charge of taking panoramic photographs for POWER AdDU events are Diana Quilendrino and Shazny Toyorada. They are led by the Head Photojournalist, Pauline Quesada In collaboration with the photojournalists, the graphics and layout department is responsible for editing event photos for posting and the layout for the publication. This department comprises the Graphics and Layout Head, Rowela Cristobal, and multiple department members, namely, Mae Comon, Keathly Masiglat, Nurhata Misuari, and Tricia Oasan.

Lastly, the department that oversees the organization’s social media postings comprises Key Alutaya as the head of the department, and the members Laura Academia, Andriane Gura, Ailia Rivas, Divine Villanueva, and Angelica Zonio They will all work together to release a publication showcasing women's accomplishments, rights, and predicaments as POWER AdDU's main goal and objective This seems overwhelming as the debut publication of a pioneering group, but these women are fired up to bring this newspaper to reality.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY 2023:

EMBRACING GENDER EQUITY

Every year, the month of March is celebrated worldwide to commemorate and emphasize the strength, achievements, and contributions of women in different fields and professions. Aside from that, it aims to raise awareness and remind people of the importance of talking about the struggles and challenges women face daily.

Looking through history, women have made a mark and slowly worked their way up against patriarchy in various parts of the world. Fighting against unfair treatment, slavery, poverty, low wages, poor working conditions, etc., women stood firm Through their efforts and will to stand for the rights they deserve, they showed the world that they are capable, competent, significant, and powerful As a result, women of today enjoy those rights and are continuously fighting to preserve and make them inclusive for everyone

In the Philippines, the celebration of National Women’s Month made women ’ s voices louder Together with different women's sectors and organizations, the commemoration has allowed women to tackle issues and challenges that concern them They have produced campaigns and activities that align with various international and national objectives

In the past few years, the national women's month celebration focused more on what women can do and what women have done for women's empowerment. From 2016 to 2022, the celebration's core was “WE make CHANGE work for WOMEN.” Through Compassionate and Harmonized Actions and Networks for Gender Equality (CHANGE), the celebration made a difference in the lives of many.

This year ’ s national women ’ s month celebration embarks on a new journey towards a greater goal with the theme: WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society “It sparks a renewed commitment to the advocacy and banks on the gains achieved during the 2016-2022 theme” (Philippine Commission on Women, 2023) The achievements of women in the Philippines serve as proof that they can do more and they will do more

Likewise, the City Government of Davao joins the rest of the globe in celebrating International Women's Day with a Women's March from Freedom Park to Rizal Park, which began early in the morning Apart from the women's March, a unique exhibit of women's items was shown to help small businesses

All over the world, women have proven themselves to be as capable as men In this yearly celebration, the sacrifices and battles women have fought for themselves and for others should be remembered. Today, in celebration of National Women’s month, advancement towards a more inclusive society and promotion of gender equality should be tenaciously fought for.

THE LIGHTHOUSE PROJECT: A BEACON OF HOPE FOR VICTIMS OF CHILD EXPLOITATION

On the 3rd of March 2023, POWER AdDU kickstarted the essence of International Women's Month with its first-ever faceto-face community engagement among women, entitled The Lighthouse Project at Doña Vicenta Village, Davao City Through its long-term advocacy against child exploitation, it has come together with Talikala, a non-profit organization for social development, to equip and provide young exploited women with sufficient knowledge of their human rights and services. The beneficiaries are from the community of Leon Garcia in Davao City where there is a visible presence of individuals engaged in prostitution of which 20 percent of 6,000 girls are under 18 years old in Davao City

Despite the alarming number of women and girls involved, the awareness and help that is given to them are limited With this, POWER AdDU has come together with volunteers and partnerships for the event to proceed. These partnerships include the Computer Studies Student Executive Council (CSSEC), Social Sciences Student Executive Council (SSEC), and a few socio-civic organizations from AdDU, Bahaghari and Piglas With the leadership of POWER, a symposium was initiated that encouraged a few of the young girls from the community to share their stories and obtain necessary resources, such as knowledge and services, in a safe and empowered environment

Upon the arrival at the venue, preparations were speedily done by the volunteers, which involved the arrangement of the place, donations, prizes for the game, and breakfast for participants and volunteers. Thereafter, the event was officially started by Ms Carina Sajonia, the Program Coordinator of Talikala, through her opening remarks in which she stressed the importance of this event for women's empowerment, and it serves as both an acknowledgment and action towards women who are being exploited She expressed that helping and being a voice for exploited women has been their organization's core purpose and thanked POWER for successfully organizing the event despite the problems encountered

Afterward, Ms. Jeanette Laurel-Ampog, the Executive Director of Talikala and the event's main speaker, talked about adolescent reproductive health, teenage pregnancy prevention, and the services that should be provided to adolescents In the context of human rights for adolescent reproductive health, adolescents have the right to non-discrimination and the right to education and information These rights provide adolescents equal access to adequate health care and services and information about health and family planning where adolescents can decide freely yet responsibly Moreover, she discusses a visual presentation of the female and male reproductive system and the menstruation of the female reproductive tract

“Kailangan naa tay saktong impormasyon aron naay saktong desisyon,” Ms Laurel-Ampog asserted the importance of being knowledgeable in sex education to avoid the consequences of teenage pregnancy F inally, Ms Laurel-Ampog explains the services that should be provided to adolescents, such as information & counseling on adolescent reproductive health, promotion of healthy sexual behaviors, family planning & fertility, provision of contraceptives, testing & counseling for pregnancy and STIs

After the discussion, a few participants shared what they had discovered and their key takeaways The members also organized games and prizes to keep the participants interested and celebrated the birthday of the son of one of the beneficiaries Before the event concluded, the volunteers distributed the donations that were gathered for the participants, including food, hygiene products, and other necessities

Ultimately, Ms Jhoanna Cayanan, President of POWER AdDU, concludes the project with words of appreciation and gratitude towards Talikala, POWER AdDU officers and volunteers, partnerships, and the participants who attended After the event, Ms Rose Quimod, SINAG President and the youngest Talikala member, tackled the origin and objectives of Talikala to the members of POWER AdDU and left words of encouragement to help continue breaking the chains of exploited women Lastly, Talikala presented their documentary video, which focused on the accounts, experiences, and brutal truths of prostitution victims that are needed to be heard, seen, and addressed

DIVING DEEP INTO ADVOCACY-BUILDING, POLICY REFORMS, AND EFFECTIVE LOBBYING WITH POWER ADDU'S CONFERENCE:

CONQUERING CURRENTS, FORGING WAVES

On March 10, 2023, the Bapa Benny Tudtud Auditorium was abuzz with energy as POWER AdDU hosted its latest event, Conquering Currents, Forging Waves The event aimed to provide a platform for advocacy-building, policy reforms, and effective lobbying, specifically for promoting

diversity and inclusion in advocacy efforts

The event was opened by POWER moderator Mx. Donna Cuenca, who welcomed attendees and set the tone for the afternoon's discussions. After her opening remarks, a solidarity message from Atty. Leni Robredo was presented, emphasizing the importance of empowering women and working towards a Philippines where women are limitless.

The keynote speaker for the advocacy-building talk was Mx. Jeanette Laurel-Ampog, Talikala's Executive Director. In her speech, she discussed the current situation of women in the Philippines and highlighted the rising unemployment rate, the domestic role of women, and the situation of women migrant workers Mx Laurel-Ampog also pointed out the alarming number of teenage and unplanned pregnancies, as well as the political detainees and maternal deaths in the city

Mx Laurel-Ampog stressed that advocacy is a process and not a one-time event She discussed the importance of having clear objectives and goals in advocacy efforts, as well as the need to build partnerships and networks to effect change She also noted the challenges of media in promoting gender blindness and the need to educate them on the issue

One of the most important points Mx Laurel-Ampog made was the need for safe spaces She noted that advocacy building requires mentorship, coaching, and engaging with other groups, and that it is important to invite unlike-minded groups as they can contribute to the advocacy.

The talk concluded with a reminder that while all women have experiences of oppression, others face the brunt of it more than others. Mx. Laurel-Ampog made a point of the importance of understanding the systemic structure and discrimination against women, particularly the patriarchal mindset that perpetuates the belief that women are secondclass

Following this, the event included another solidarity message, this time from Mx Lavina A Oliveros, the Comprehensive Sexuality Education Coordinator at UNFPA Philippines In her message, Mx Oliveros speaks of the need for translating policies into action toward women empowerment – many legal frameworks for women empowerment are present in the country, but much work is still needed to make them a reality

CURRENTS, FORGING WAVES

Oliveros also stressed the importance of engaging men and boys in efforts towards women's leadership, policy reform, and impact. She believed that it is not just women but everyone who needs to be encouraged to achieve a positive social impact. This message served as a reminder that empowering women requires the collective efforts of society as a whole, including both men and women

After Mx Oliveros’ informative solidarity piece, the event moved on to discussing policy reforms The speaker for this part of the event was Mx Katrina Marie Oralde, a 3rd-year law student and legislative research aide at the Office of Councilor Trisha Ann Villafuerte

Mx. Oralde began her talk by emphasizing the importance of developing active political participation to forward the interests of women She then mentions how Davao City is at the forefront of promoting women ’ s rights and welfare through policy reforms She spotlights that Davao City is the first to have a women development code, which was enacted in 1998 The Integrated Gender and Development Division (IGDD) was created to reflect the city government’s commitment to pursue and promote women ’ s rights and welfare Through the IGDD, Davao City has been able to implement programs and projects that address the different needs and concerns of women in the community Oralde also shared about the unique policies in place for female inmates in Davao City’s Ray of Hope Village Female inmates in this facility do not have conventional jail cells, but instead, have a “home-type jail” that is more comfortable and humane They are also able to receive donations such as sanitary napkins, which are essential for their basic needs The policies in Davao City are not just limited to women ’ s rights, but are also inclusive of all genders Through these policy reforms and the cooperation of the Davao City government, women in Davao City can say, “life is here.”

The third and final part of the conference was a fitting culmination to a day filled with meaningful discussions and insightful talks

The participants were graced by a performance from POWER’S very own songbird, Mx. Jearvel Ann Bonjoc.

Following the musical interlude, the attendees were treated to a final solidarity video featuring the President of The Federacion Internacionale De Abogadas, Cagayan de Oro Chapter, Mx Hon Judge Jearlie Luis Requerme

The next speaker was Atty Acosta-Manlitoc, a lawyer and City Councilor of Davao City, who talked about the importance of effective lobbying in advocating for women's rights She highlighted the need for proper research and the need to build alliances and connections to strengthen the women's movement. Atty. Acosta-Manlitoc also emphasized the significance of finding one's advocacy and doing something about it She encouraged the participants to choose an advocacy that is close to their hearts and to connect with other groups with shared advocacies

The event ended with closing remarks by the President of POWER, Jhoanna Cayanan, who expressed her gratitude to all the participants and speakers for making the event a success, succeeded by the awarding of certificates to the speakers and a photo opportunity, which allowed everyone to capture the memories of this momentous occasion

Overall, Conquering Currents, Forging Waves was a resounding success, with participants leaving feeling inspired and empowered to make a difference in their communities It was a poignant reminder of the power of solidarity and the need for continued advocacy for women's rights and empowerment, as well as a celebration of the achievements of women and a call to action for everyone to join the fight for gender equality

Empowering Women at Ateneo de Davao University: The Story of POWER AdDU

By: Ellyanna Nicole Du

espite the strides taken across the span of several decades, the women’s rights movement has a long way to go. Women still go toe-to-toe with issues such as gender bias, sexual harassment, lack of representation, lack of support, and discriminatory policies. In many cultures, women are also subject to gender-based violence, which stems from societal norms that perpetuate gender inequality and reinforce harmful stereotypes about women.

We owe this dilemma to a deep-seated prejudice against women – a manifestation of unprecedented discrimination, violence, and harassment. An unyielding affliction that has continued to persecute women throughout the ages: misogyny. Misogyny has long woven itself into the fabric of our society – how many times has a woman ablaze with passion been told to snuff out her light? She’s bossy, not a fearless leader, nor an alpha type. A total control freak and absolutely hysterical! Women could spend their entire lives running as fast as they can, condemned to wondering if they’d get there quicker if they were a man.

The worst part? Women are burdened with the experience for the entirety of their lifetimes. In a soliloquy solemnly delivered on Fleabag, Belinda (played by Kristin Scott Thomas) muses, “I’ve been longing to say this out loud — women are born with pain built in, it’s our physical destiny… We carry it with ourselves throughout our lives; men don’t.” It’s a painful reminder. Women often face discrimination and bias in a wide range of settings, regardless of age, much less location.

This is where POWER AdDU steps in.

POWER AdDU, which stands for People’s Organization for Women’s Empowerment and Rights, was founded by a group of Atenean women’s rights advocates. The founding members, who had previously been involved in several women’s youth organizations, felt the need to do more within the university to address the issues that women face. They believed that women’s empowerment should be fought for in the streets and inside the academe, where women have a right to tangible representation.

At Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU), POWER has been a powerful force for change. The organization’s aim is to empower women to take charge of their lives and to fight for their rights. It works towards achieving this goal through education, advocacy, and activism. POWER is committed to providing a safe space for women to come together, share their experiences, and build a community of support.

“Starting an org that’s dedicated to women empowerment was once just a crazy idea,” founding member and Political Science graduate Rose Quimod says. Yet, ever the mastermind, she shares, “I could still remember I posted a tweet from my old Twitter that someday I will establish a women's organization in AdDU. It must be real that what you feed your mind will become your reality.”

However, the road to accreditation was long and waning; and they were far from close. According to Quimod, they fought tooth and nail. “With a strong-willed heart, we attempted for accreditation of a women’s org two times. Although we have not successfully attained it, the women’s group was still functioning.”

Despite the challenges, the founding officers persevered and continued to fight for their vision. They eventually succeeded in getting accredited as a club, marking a significant milestone in their journey toward empowering women at AdDU. “As they say, the third time’s a charm, POWER AdDU – backed with the brave and empowered founding officers, we have been awarded a [Club] Accreditation and officially established a tangible representation inside the institution. It was a big win for all of us. Finally, we can take up more space in Ateneo.”

She continues, “It was during my senior year in undergraduate when we were working again for the Club Accreditation. For that, I gathered a group of women of Ateneo that I know has the heart to continue and fight for our advocacy. With a brave and dasig heart and with no hesitation, Jhoanna [Cayanan], the Founding President, together with the other founding officers, accepted the challenge to lead the now-pioneering women’s organization of Ateneo de Davao.”

Looking back on how far things have come, Quimod shares her one singular regret – “It is a powerful moment to be able to work with these empowered women. My only regret is not having the chance to meet the founding members personally before we were officially conferred with recognized status.” She proudly proclaims that being redirected and having missed opportunities propelled the organization forward. “It was also a moving moment for all of us to push the glass ceiling higher, all the more reason to stand up and pushed for our rights. It was a sweet moment of success!”

Looking ahead, there is nothing but clear skies for the future of POWER. This organization’s support, even during Quimod’s run for SAMAHAN Presidency, was overwhelming. “I used my platform to raise the discussion on women’s rights and the representation of us inside the university.

Furthermore, on the next SAMAHAN Election (2022) months before the club accreditation of POWER AdDU, we made sure the discussion on pushing for the women’s organization will reach many students and that they will realize the big importance of having it recognized and accredited, that there are so many issues of women that need to be addressed, that the question of why there’s no women’s organization in AdDU despite it being a vulnerable sector and still have no tangible representation in the institution were never raised. I thank all the women of Ateneo who supported and amplified the call for our accreditation. This organization will stay for all women even outside the confines of the university.”

As we celebrate the progress made by POWER AdDU in empowering women and fighting for their rights, let us remember that the struggle for gender equality is far from over. It is up to all of us to continue pushing the glass ceiling higher, to speak out against discrimination and bias, and to support and uplift the women in our live. When women thrive, the world thrives.

DISHING INTELLECT AND ELOQUENCE:

POWER Duo Harnesses Girlboss Energy During 6th Cebu Intervarsity

By: Felia Ross Sichon

“In a world where women are seen as too aggressive and emotional, it is important to speak out even more ” – Jhoanna Grace Cayanan, POWER President

“Challenged to speak up, challenging the status quo when speaking up, then becoming the challenger to implement changes in the status quo ” – Joie Noreen Garces, POWER Woman

Powered with intellect, sense, and wits Joie Noreen Garces and Jhoanna Grace Cayanan dished out well-thought ideas, exuberating female energy, and voicing out their brilliance and articulacy in the 6th Cebu Intervarsity

The 6th Cebu Intervarsity was hosted by the University of the Philippines Cebu from September 10-11, 2022. Garnering spots on the pre-semifinals as opening opposition, the duo paved their way with the motion, “THBT countries who are a part of the 5Ps of the United Nations Security Council should be indefinitely stripped of their veto powers as a punishment should they disrupt the general peace and stability of the international world order ” Cayanan consecutively was titled as the event’s 7th-best speaker

Jhoanna Cayanan, a second-year political science student, and Joie Garces, a first-year finance major, both began competitive debating at the beginning of their senior high school careers Thus, it is not surprising that this team achieved significant development and success under pressure due to their powerful beginnings Garces stated that both did not really make any significant changes to their thought processes; furthermore, their foundations have proved how earnest they are to study various motions such as politics, art, social movements, economics, and international relations

Did you know? Did you know?

Geronima Pecson is the first Filipina Geronima Pecson is the first Filipina and first woman to be elected to the and first woman to be elected to the executive board of the United executive board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

“Debate enables this duo to amplify their voices in a bigger audience As such, they both highlighted and signified how this craft has empowered them despite strong competitors Cayanan further explained, “In a world where women are seen as too aggressive and emotional, it is important to learn how to communicate effectively. Women are assertive and intelligent, debate serves as one of the many arenas where we learn practical skills that will help not just ourselves but also others ”

Geronima Pecson Geronima Pecson (Photo courtesy of the National (Photo courtesy of the National library of the Philippines) library of the Philippines)

POWER Woman Jearvel Ann Bonjoc Talks

Pursuing Passion, Signing Records, and More on “The Briller Project”

By: Christie Cadiz, Ellyanna Nicole Du

Jhoanna Cayanan is IMUN 2022’s The Outstanding Delegate

THE BANANA KETCHUP WAS CREATED BY FILIPINA FOOD SCIENTIST MARIA ORASA IN AN EFFORT TO REDUCE THE NATION'S DEPENDENCY ON IMPORTS FOR ITS FOOD SUPPLY WHEN CREATING KETCHUP, SHE SUBSTITUTES LOCAL VEGETABLES (BANANA) FOR TOMATOES

By: Ellyanna Nicole Du

A Stellar Performance by POWER’s Songbird

By: Christie Cadiz

Jearvel Ann Bonjoc, a TALENTED SINGER and a POWER WOMAN.

On a day when books were signed, we cheered for her name with PRIDE! Our POWER Woman and vocalist for the band 7th, Jearvel Ann Bonjoc, performed at Gwy Saludes’ book signing event last September 17, 2022. The #GwyisPrecious book signing event was held at SMX Convention Center, MOA, where the band serenaded the crowd with an acoustic version of their songs, including their original song “Mata sa Mata.” This was not only an ordinary performance though, as it was also mentioned on 7th’s official Facebook page that their song “Mata sa Mata” is a part of Gwy Saludes’ University Series original soundtrack. With a huge crowd present for the book signing event, it truly was a spectacular day to hear such an exceptional performance from the band. It is also with delight that we share an update from the band regarding the mentioned song, which is scheduled to be released to the public on the 4th of November 2022.

The recognized vocalist, Jearvel Ann Bonjoc, has been a part of the 4-member band since it was established in 2020. For the said band to have come a long way ever since then, it certainly is with pride and honor that POWER AdDU recognizes one of our own, with an astounding musical affinity, to be a part of such a band’s spectacular feat. Let this serve as written proof, that for every endeavor and accomplishment a POWER woman achieves, the rest are sure to show support and applaud the attained triumph.

POWER Merchandise Drop Encourages Women To Take Up Space

By: Ellyanna Nicole Du

Did you know?

IN 2017, THERE ARE ABOUT 28,000 WSMES (WOMEN SMALL MEDIUM ENTERPRISES) EXISTED IN THE PHILIPPINES.

“

...To send a message for women to take up space…and also a way for POWER to welcome its pioneering members and encourage those nonmembers to share our advocacy even as allies” –

Jhoanna Grace Cayanan, POWER President

In an announcement on August 20, 2022, Ateneo de Davao University’s first-ever all-woman organization, The Protection of Women’s Equality and Rights (POWER), unveiled the first look at their brand-new merchandise featuring a POWER CLUB shirt in two colors: beige and dark grey.

Amassing over 200 purchases, the first batch of orders wrapped up on September 5, 2022, and the merchandise distribution to the supporters of the cause began on October 10 up until the 13th at Arrupe Hall and Jacinto Gate.

The collection spurred from the collective efforts of the President, the Office of the Internal VicePresident, the Office of the Executive Secretary, and the Office of The Treasury. When asked what catalyzed the project, Secretary General, Nicole Reyes, shares, “Last semester, the core team opened up the topic [of] how to generate more funds for the organization, and one of the ideas presented was the release of POWER [merch]. We [figured] that aside from [generating] funds for the club, it was also a way for us to put the [organization’s name] out there.”

After being met with such positive responses from both buyers and allies, there is no doubt that POWER’s merch drop was a huge hit, which begs the million-peso question: Is there more to come?

The answer is an enthusiastic yes! On December 16, POWER announced the second wave of merchandise was coming; this time with two new shirt colors – coral pink and pink – as well as POWER pins and several sticker freebies. The second round of preorders wrapped on December 19, and the date of the release will soon be announced.

RAINBOW RUSH RIDE: Commemorating LGBT History Month by Standing Strong with Pride

The month of October is widely celebrated as LGBT History Month, a time to recognize the contributions of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community to history, culture, and society In the Philippines, this month provides an opportunity to highlight the rich and diverse history of gay culture in the country

The Philippines has a long and vibrant history of LGBT culture, dating back to pre-colonial times when male-tofemale transgender individuals known as babaylan played essential roles in indigenous communities However, the arrival of Spanish colonialism in the 16th century brought a legacy of conservative Catholicism that has made acceptance of LGBT individuals a struggle for centuries

And yet, here they stand, strong with pride.

The LGBT community in the Philippines has also been at the forefront of the fight for equal rights and representation In 2001, the first LGBT political party in Asia, Ladlad, was formed in the Philippines, advocating for the rights of LGBT individuals in the country's political system

ABORTION RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS

By: Christie Cadiz

In 2013, the country passed the Anti-Discrimination Bill, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, education, and other areas

However, we remain at a crossroads. While same-sex junctures remain not criminalized, there is a lack of laws that protect gay people from discrimination – tolerance of homosexuality is not the same as acceptance. There are still acts of violence committed against members of the LGBT community – and as long as we turn a blind eye to it, the oppression will do nothing more but snowball into perpetuated cycles of discrimination and brutality

As we celebrate LGBT History Month in the Philippines, it is important to remember the struggles and triumphs, both past and present. We must continue to advocate for equal rights and representation for all individuals, especially those who have been cast aside and victimized by unwarranted transgression.

Only by doing so can we create just, peaceful, and prosperous communities for everyone.

By: Ellyanna Nicole Du

Human beings, regardless of gender, sexuality, religion, race, color, economic status, and other classifications they identify as, have human rights Why, then, is it that women are denied their basic rights when they seek out abortion? Why, then, is it that women are denied their basic rights when they are merely making a choice?

It was established at the beginning of the United Nations General Assembly in December of 1948 that it is only through recognizing the equal rights of all members of the human family that peace, justice, and freedom are founded In other words, human rights for all are the foundation of a liberated world living in harmonious equity – an ideal world But to attain such a vision, what counts as basic human rights must first be settled Accounted for in the said assembly is the fact that every human being born is free and equal in dignity and rights to life, liberty, and security Simply put, once given birth to, a human, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, religion, and social standing is entitled to all the rights established for a human being

And so the question stands: is there any truth to abortion being an act of defying human rights? The short answer would be no However, an elaborate answer starts with the definition and purpose of abortion Abortion, according to an article from Amnesty International, is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy; one that is considered safer compared to child While a myriad of factors constitutes a woman ’ s decision to pursue the aforementioned procedure, a study conducted by Briggs et al concluded that most, if not all, are connected to the circumstances these women find themselves in, especially concerning their socioeconomic and health status With this information, it is safe to state that the act of denying these women the right to abortion actually defies established human rights when undertaken by a trained professional in proper conditions

Further elaboration on how banning abortion is an act of defying human rights, discusses matters of fatal consequences Prohibiting abortion does not mean women will no longer have any need for it

Rather, preventing women from access to safe abortion procedures will only push them to seek out a termination of pregnancy from a person not trained for it, and most likely will do so in an environment less than ideal to medical standards

In the same article from Amnesty International, it is stated that unsafe procedures of abortions, more often than not, lead to maternal deaths or disabilities that could’ve been preventable if a proper medical procedure had been provided instead To neglect such a situation is to neglect women ’ s marital health, and to neglect marital health is to neglect women ’ s right to security and life

Moreover, criminalizing abortion to prevent women from safe pregnancy termination is a form of discrimination Aside from the denial of providing a human being with what should be considered a basic reproduction service, the stigma that women face from seeking an abortion leaves them at risk of harassment due to the perception that such action is unlawful and unbecoming of a moral human being At this point, it is not merely a matter of protecting women ’ s health, but a matter of protecting all those suffering from unwanted pregnancies and the risk of discrimination and harassment that come with it Be it cisgender women, transgender, gender non-conforming individuals, and all those who have the reproductive capacity to become pregnant are at risk of being denied proper humane treatment merely because of their own choices for their own bodies Not to mention the limitations instituted regarding who can access legal abortion, blatantly disregarding those who don’t fall under the narrow stipulations indicated by law

The stand here is not to say that safe access to abortion is a demand, but rather to prove that safe and inclusive access to abortion is a must Stating how only those who meet certain conditions of the law can gain access to safe pregnancy termination is like saying only those on the brink of death are allowed to consult a doctor Additionally, such a decision shouldn’t even be decided upon by a chosen few who most probably couldn’t even face unwanted pregnancies due to their lack of capacity to become with child At this point, to do so is to establish that once one is pregnant, then they are no longer within their rights to bodily autonomy – a known basic human right Are women then only subject to their rights as human beings when they are not pregnant?

The rights to receive proper healthcare, non-discrimination, liberty, and bodily autonomy are only some of the basic rights of a human being set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Yet these are also the rights that women are being denied by preventing their access to safe and legal abortion Declaring prohibitions against abortion can now only be viewed as a play of power against women, against fellow human beings Let it be known from here on out, that abortion rights are women ’ s rights, and women ’ s rights are human rights

WOMEN IN PHILIPPINE POLITICS

WhyAre They Underrepresented?

By: Samantha Lacuna

Patriarchal

This is one of the words that describe the Philippine Political Scene The constant efforts to push women forward in leadership and government positions are usually shunned with hostility However, while women have broken significant barriers in Patriarchal Philippines, the country has not moved on from this ancient belief system, and the question remains:

Why are women underrepresented in Philippine politics?

Perhaps this has a lot to do with history

According to numerous research, indigenous women in the pre-colonial Philippines enjoyed high status and privilege They were part of social discourse and were valued participants in making decisions for their respective homes and communities However, there was a significant shift under colonial rule The Spanish brought several socioeconomic phenomena that facilitated changes in society, such as the social being of women Those who once were equals to men became subjects and servants of their husbands, their families, the church, and society

Unfortunately, the years of western colonization have not left the nation entirely Breadcrumbs of western culture and beliefs are still evident despite modernization A perfect example of this would be the patriarchal culture among Filipinos With over 300 years of western colonization, the Filipinos were groomed to believe that women are second to men

In the Global Gender Gap report of 2021 presented by the World Economic Forum, the Philippines placed 17th among 156 countries close to bridging the gap between men and women in government This report also stated that the Philippines took the 33rd spot in political empowerment for women With these statistics, it might seem like we are doing well regarding gender equality However, our current congress only has seven women out of 24 In the Philippine government, women only hold 28% of congressional positions and 13% of ministerial positions These numbers are not enough We are still underrepresented

Furthermore, a study by the Philippine Institute of Development Studies states that men dominate the country's cabinet positions While, the health, tourism, and social welfare sectors have more female participation, economic, finance, and foreign sectors are more male-dominated

#EQUALITY4ALL: SOGIE Bill Approved at the Senate Committee Level

Senate Bill No 1600, commonly known as the SOGIESC Equality Act, has finally gained approval at the senate committee level, two decades after the filing of its first version Truly, a remarkable indicator that we have indeed come a long way to have a senate bill, the first of its kind in our country, finally take huge leaps toward victory At long last, genderbased discrimination isn’t only recognized, but also abhorred and being taken legal and justifiable action against However, to truly encapsulate the noteworthy win the said senate bill attained, it is best to be aware of what it has gone through and what it fights for After all, a victory can only be truly cherished by those who understand what was accomplished and what it took to do so

To know the SOGIESC Equality Act better, an article published in 2020 by Atty Deslate provided clarifications regarding the specifics of its predecessor bill Concepts of sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression, along with other terms of pertinent relation to the aforementioned, are introduced and defined suitably to serve as a fitting guide for the intricate details of the bill With this matter settled right off the bat, lists are cited which contain the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community and the practices or customs considered discriminatory and unlawful, citing along with their corresponding punishments, in accordance with the bill This senate bill isn’t just a mere means of providing justice to those who have been wronged due to what they identify as, but also a preventive measure to assure that no such discriminatory thing would ever be executed again

Throughout the years, the blatant show of discrimination and disregard towards the rights of those who merely expressed their preferred gender orientation or sexual identity has risen beyond the alarming state Not being able to tick “female” when filling out a form, getting called using their dead names, obtaining a high chance of being bullied at work, and having no legal rights to file a complaint for being denied an interview, are only some among the plenty dishonorable situations the transgender community find themselves facing according to an article published in 2021 from The Fuller Project

While the data are relatively sound, the underrepresentation of women in the Philippine government is still taking a toll on our country

Anne Philips, Professor of Political and Gender Theory at the London School of Economics,states that overrepresentation in government can also mean overrepresentation in opinion Consequently, the gender of politicians leading our government influences their priorities, platforms, and vision for the country, ultimately affecting the people's future Former congresswoman, Sol Aragones makes this a point in an interview for a study on women ’ s political representation in the Philippines She emphasizes the importance of having more women in Philippine politics, and for more people to fight for women ’ s rights As per the report of the Philippine Commssion on Women in 2018, there are only 15 laws in the Philippine constitution that advocate women ’ s rights Fifteen Republic Acts out of thousands These are not enough

While the Philippines is at the forefront of bridging gaps between genders in the political scene, we still have a long way to go The reality of Patriarchal Philippines that is deeply rooted in our history still has to be constantly challenged by ideals of gender equality and equity because, beneath the influence of western colonzation, lies a culture that honors both men and women equally

By: Christie Cadiz

Then there’s also the concerning matter of schools imposing rigid gender norms, such as unjustifiable hair length restrictions and gendered uniforms or dress codes, that the youth members of the LGBTQIA+ community are forced to shoulder on a day-to-day basis And the disturbing reality is, these aren’t even half of the most unfortunate scenarios members of the LGBTQIA+ community have been fighting against; for it’s not just their reputations that are affected, but their lives as well

There is no jesting involved when one says that the fight for the approval of an anti-discrimination bill, on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, and sexual characteristics, is an uphill battle Starting with the filing of House Bill No 4982 in the 11th Congress by the late Sen Miriam Defensor-Santiago and Akbayan Rep Etta Rosales The first version of the bill was left pending for nearly two decades before having passed its third reading on the 17th Congress, however, it was only due to Sen Risa Hontiveros sponsoring Senate Bill No 1934, a predecessor of Senate Bill No 1600, that the greatest achievement so far for the LGBTQIA+ community in our country has been attained Considered the longestrunning bill in our country in 2019, it truly is a huge triumph to have the first Anti-Discrimination Bill, on the basis of SOGIESC, be approved by the House of Representatives After years of lives and rights stepped on, we finally have a senate-approved bill to penalize discrimination, marginalization, and violence based on SOGIESC

The victory of having the SOGIESC Equality Act approved is in no way a symbol to undermine, slight, or attack any religious groups The bill merely ensures that everyone, despite their sex, gender, age, class, disability, religion, and political beliefs is of equal standing concerning their human rights After all, having a preferred gender and sexuality is a choice not just exclusive to one group but to every human being These are progressive times, how is it still considered a scandalous issue to fight for equal rights for all? With the senate’s approval of the SOGIESC Equality Act in December 2022, it is only just that we delight in a battle won for the LGBTQIA+ community; for we cannot ensure equal rights for every Filipino citizen if a single community’s rights are neglected

ANG MATANG NAMULAT AY HINDI NA MULING PIPIKIT: Davao Youth Activists Call for Good Governance

The eyes of the youth in Davao, in particular, have been opened wide to the reality of the state of governance in the Philippines, and they are not closing them again The youth have been awakened to the corruption, the inefficiencies, and the failures of the Philippine politics, and they are demanding change

The rallying cry of these young activists is "Ang Matang Namulat Ay Hindi Na Muling Pipikit" (The Eyes that Have Been Opened Will Never Close Again) This phrase speaks volumes about the level of awareness and engagement that these youth have achieved They have seen the problems that beset their country and they refuse to turn a blind eye to them. They have become more discerning and critical of the issues that affect their community and are determined to take action to address them. For too long, Philippines has been acclaimed as a nation of contradictions–a place where the rule of law is flaunted by those in power, where the gap between the rich and the poor continues to widen, and where corruption runs rampant

But the youth are no longer willing to accept this status quo.

They are taking a stand and saying enough is enough

youth

Through their activism, the youth of Davao are shining a light on the issues that have been festering beneath the surface for far too long They are exposing the abuses of power, the lack of accountability, and the disregard for the well-being of the people. They are calling out the government's failures in addressing the pressing issues of poverty, education, healthcare, and the environment.

Their message is clear: it is time for good governance It is time for leaders who prioritize the needs of the people over their own self-interests It is time for transparency and accountability in government It is time for policies that promote social justice and equality. The youth of Davao are not only demanding change, they are also actively working towards it. They are organizing forums and engaging in dialogues with their elected officials They are raising awareness and mobilizing their peers to take action

But the road to good governance is not an easy one.

The youth activists are aware that they face many obstacles, including repression and persecution from those who seek to maintain the status quo They have seen how other activists in the Philippines have been silenced, harassed, and even killed for their beliefs.

But despite these risks, the youth activists remain steadfast in their commitment to the cause of good governance

The youth activists of Davao shown that the youth are not apathetic or indifferent to the problems that plague their society. They have shown that the youth can be agents of change, catalysts for progress, and leaders of the future

Indeed, their message is clear: the eyes that have been opened will never close again The youth of Davao, and the Philippines as a whole, are awake and ready to fight for a better future. It is up to us, as citizens, to support them in their quest for good governance and social justice.

"The eyes of the

are now open.

"

By: Ellyanna Nicole Du

Violence against women is a global issue that affects millions of women and girls every day. This kind of violence takes many forms, including physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse It can happen in public or in private, at home, in school, at work, or in any other setting It is a violation of human rights and has serious and long-lasting consequences for the victims and their families.

The statistics are staggering. According to the World Health Organization, one in three women worldwide has experienced some form of violence in her lifetime. This means that over a billion women have been victims of violence, with devastating consequences for their health, well-being, and ability to live their lives to the fullest

Eliminating violence against women is a crucial and urgent task that requires concerted efforts at all levels of society. The first step towards ending this problem is to acknowledge its existence and take it seriously. It is essential to create a culture that values women and recognizes their rights to safety and security This can be done by promoting gender equality and challenging patriarchal attitudes that condone violence against women

Education is a powerful tool that can help break the cycle of violence. By educating young people about healthy relationships and gender norms, we can prevent violence before it occurs. It is also important to provide education and resources to survivors of violence, such as counseling and support groups, to help them heal and recover

Another step in ending violence against women is holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. This includes strengthening laws and policies to ensure that perpetrators are prosecuted and punished for their crimes. It also involves changing societal attitudes towards perpetrators of violence and recognizing the harm they cause to individuals and communities

Creating safe spaces for women is also essential in eliminating violence against women. This can be done by providing access to shelters, hotlines, and other resources for women who need support and protection. It also requires challenging the culture of victim-blaming and holding institutions accountable for creating safe environments for women.

Women deserve to not just exist in a world without violence, but to thrive in it Let's make a vow to end violence against women and create a world where every woman can live without fear. We have the power to challenge patriarchal attitudes, educate the next generation, hold perpetrators accountable, and create safe spaces for women. It's not just a dream, it's a necessity for a fair and just society. It’s shooting for the moon, but it’s what needs to be done Vow to end VAW, now!

Does the SIM Card Registration Law Prosecute Fascist Attacks?

The Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Registration Act, also known as Republic Act No 11934, has been controversial way before its implementation on December 27, 2022 This law mandates the registration of all prepaid and postpaid SIM cards with personal identification information, including the user ’ s name, address, date of birth, and other sensitive details

The law was imposed with the intention of addressing security concerns involving unregistered SIM cards, which were hotbeds for criminal activity such as terrorism, extortion, and fraud, amongst other crimes It was also to comply with the standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) – an intergovernmental organization driven by the goal of protecting the integrity of the international financial system – internationally on combatting money laundering and terrorist financing. The FATF had previously deemed the Philippines a potential addition to the “ gray list” of countries with remiss measures against dirty money.

While the law is purported to help combat the exponential rise of cybercrime and enhance public safety, it has faced criticism for its potential impact on privacy and civil liberties Several argue that there are compelling reasons to reject this law and call for its repeal

Firstly, the SIM Card Law can potentially propagate fascist attacks This law gives the government and law enforcement agencies the power to access the personal data of every mobile phone user in the country Such an immense amount of data could be misused or abused for fascist purposes, including discriminatory profiling, surveillance, and harassment of political opponents or minority groups Gabriela Partylist Representative, Arlene Brosas, says, “This proposed SIM card registration bill gives a false assurance that once all SIM cards are registered, purveyors of spam messages and trolls will be flagged – when in reality, these crimes and acts will not come to a halt ” The potential abuse of this information can compromise the privacy and safety of citizens and lead to human rights violations

Secondly, the SIM Card Registration Act violates the Data Privacy Act (DPA). This law mandates the protection of personal data, including the right to be informed, the right to object, and the right to access, among others. However, the SIM card law requires the collection of personal data without the express consent of the user, thereby violating their right to privacy. An organization of information and technology professionals and advocates shared their bits on the law, with secretary general Kim Cantillas stating, “It has been proven in other countries that this is not an effective means to stop or minimize the crimes it is meant to address ” She adds, Given the poor implementation of the DPA and a culture that does not yet appreciate our right to privacy, this is an additional risk to the people ” The final blow is delivered with a sharp reproval towards the Marcos administration, as she says, “It is disappointing that instead of addressing the different crises in our country, the Marcos administration chooses to prioritize a bill which is ineffective and will expose us to more risk ” The collection and storage of personal data in a centralized database could also lead to data breaches and expose users to identity theft or other forms of cybercrime – a state of aggression disguised as legislation This law infringes on the privacy and freedom of citizens and amounts to a violation of their civil liberties By collecting personal data, the government can easily identify and monitor citizens and potentially harass or punish them for their political or social beliefs

Finally, there are more pressing matters to attend to that are not subtle acts of power-tripping. The Philippines faces several pressing issues, including the lack of access to education, poverty and inequality, corruption, political instability, and human rights violations such as extrajudicial killings. These issues require immediate attention and resources to address effectively The SIM Card Registration Act distracts from these more critical issues and is an unnecessary burden on citizens

In conclusion, the SIM Card Registration Act in the Philippines is a flawed law that poses a significant threat to privacy, civil liberties, and human rights The government should be called to repeal this law and focus on addressing more pressing issues, such as the safety and protection of the lives of Filipinos

By: Ellyanna Nicole Du

CONSENT AND SAFE SEX

Freely given Utah State University (2021) acknowledges consent as the agreement to do something mutually, at a mutual time, and in a mutual manner. Sexual consent complements sexual respect that deters sexual harassment. One must understand how critical consent is in one's physical, emotional, and sexual welfare. Embodying the essence of consent can be an affirmation or negation.

In a generation where frivolous free-lovism dominates, demeaning sexual assaults have also increased in numbers. In the Philippines, 3 out of 5 women have been sexually harassed, assaulted, and violated. It is indeed disheartening that women and children have most cases of sexual violence, including rape cases, verbal insistence and deception, and sexual threats. Given these numbers, how can this pervasiveness be addressed?

Alongside consent is safe sex. When sexual consent has been affirmed, both parties ought to make an agreement to engage in safe sex; by definition, it is the engagement of sexual intercourse with the low t i k f ll t itt d di (STD ) (K l MD, 2021). Regardless of gender and se e's sex life better with their partner. Again,

There exual consent. This means that the outcom al. If sexual violence persists, how can thi ounter question: how can one be so dismiss re that possibly ceases their morale and ex

When

nsent, fervent sexual intimacy. Thus, consen ming a "yes" due to the absence of a clea a non-uttered "yes" is "no." Most importa

Why espect and self-autonomy. Worldly pleasu and satisfaction. What matters the most a ating or negating consent for such spiteful mpensates for a healthier sex life; hence, still at risk. All these matter because it is a validation of one's welfare, and mutuality diverges active participation rather than passive.

Once more, consent is a must, and safe sex is consensual.

By: Meyrheana Dorothy Gaviola

PRETTY IS A PITY WORD

by: Althea Montecillo

Break the Stigma: Pursuit of Social Acceptance among HIV/AIDS Patients

She sat alone in the dimly lit hospital room, the only sounds were the beeping machines and the soft whir of the ventilation system. Her eyes were fixed on the pale-yellow walls as she tried to come to terms with what was happening to her. It had started as a fever, then the coughing came and her energy drained away. She tried to ignore it, thinking it was just a simple case of the flu, but when the results came back, she knew it was something far worse than that She had HIV The diagnosis had hit her hard She felt like her whole world had collapsed in on itself How would she tell her family and friends? Would they reject her? Would they treat her differently? She couldn't bear the thought of being shunned and isolated by the people she loved. But as the days turned into weeks, she slowly began to realize that living with HIV wasn't the end of the world. She started to educate herself about the disease, learning how it was transmitted and how it could be treated She reached out to support groups and met other people who were going through the same thing as her Despite the progress she was making, there was still a sense of shame that hung over her. She was terrified that if she told anyone about her condition, they would treat her differently. She knew the stigma that came with HIV and she didn't want to become a victim of it. But one day, she decided to take a stand. She would no longer hide in the shadows, she would break the stigma and pursue social acceptance She started talking about her condition openly, educating others about the disease and how to prevent it She made a conscious effort to live her life with pride and dignity, refusing to let the disease define her. It wasn't easy. There were still people who judged her and looked at her with fear in their eyes. But there were also those who accepted her for who she was, who didn't care about her diagnosis and saw her as a human being. And it was those people who gave her the strength to keep going. Years passed, and she lived her life to the fullest She had her ups and downs, but she never let HIV hold her back She traveled the world, fell in love, and made a difference in the lives of others. She became an advocate for HIV awareness and inspired countless others to break the stigma and pursue social acceptance. And when she passed away peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by the love of her family and friends, she knew that she had made a difference. Her legacy would live on, and the world would be a better place because of her As the curtains closed on her life, the silence in the hospital room was deafening It was a sad ending, but one that was filled with hope and inspiration She had shown that HIV didn't have to be a death sentence, that people living with the disease were just like everyone else. And if more people could see the world through her eyes, maybe the stigma would finally be broken, and those with HIV could live their lives with dignity and respect.

by: Nicole Gabb Gloria

The sun was beating down on the small town of Pine Valley, casting a golden glow on the streets. It was a typical summer day, with kids riding their bikes, couples walking their dogs, and neighbors chatting over white picket fences

But there was something different in the air today. A sense of liberation and pride that couldn't be ignored. It was Pride Month, and the LGBTQ+ community in Pine Valley was out and proud

Among them was Kent Lawrence, a young man who had recently come out to his friends and family. He had always felt different, but it wasn't until he went to college that he found the words to describe his true self Indeed, it was a scary journey, but he was glad he had taken it

As he walked down Cornelia Street, he saw rainbow flags hanging from storefronts and lampposts There were posters advertising local events, like a drag show and a queer film festival He felt a rush of excitement and belonging, knowing that he was part of a community that celebrated diversity and love

Kent Lawrence stopped at a cafe to grab a latte, and he saw a group of people at a nearby table, laughing and chatting They were all wearing Pride T-shirts and buttons, and Kent Lawrence couldn't help but smile at their camaraderie

As he sipped his coffee, he overheard their conversation They were talking about their experiences coming out, and Kent Lawrence felt a pang of sadness He had always been afraid of rejection, of not being accepted for who he was But seeing this group of people being so open and honest with each other gave him hope. He decided to introduce himself, and as he walked over to their table, his heart was pounding But as soon as he joined them, they welcomed him with open arms They asked him about his coming-out story, and he shared it with them, feeling more comfortable and confident with each passing moment.

For the rest of the day, Kent Lawrence hung out with his new friends They went to a picnic in the park, where they played frisbee and listened to live music. They talked about their favorite LGBTQ+ movies and books, and Kent Lawrence discovered new titles to add to his reading list

As the sun began to set, they all walked back to Cornelia Street for the evening's festivities. There was a street fair with vendors selling handmade crafts and rainbow-themed snacks There was a stage set up for drag performers and local musicians And there was a dance party that lasted until the early hours of the morning

Kent Lawrence danced and laughed and sang along with the crowd, feeling more alive than he ever had before He looked around at the sea of faces, all united by a common cause, and he knew that he was part of something special

As he walked home that night, he felt a sense of pride and gratitude He was out and proud, and he was surrounded by people who loved and accepted him for who he was And he knew that he would never forget this day, the day he found his true community

OUT AND PROUD

by: Nicole Gabb Gloria

Photo Courtesy: CNN Ph

StoodUptotheDictator:ATributeto theFilipinoWomenWhoFought AgainstMarcos'Dictatorship

By: Andree Sibonga

For the women who brave adversity, Endure danger and scrutiny, Those who fight for truth and justice, To restore our country's democracy

Shining a light during the darkest, Days that turned into endless decades, Openly questioning pompous incompetence, Empowering others to join the movement.

Though many efforts were made to silence, Their voices, writing, and protests. One thing to behold is their inner strength, Uncompromised and graceful despite the unrest

At a time now when our history is threatened, Detailed distorted narratives shifted, It's our duty to tell the stories as they are, And remember the names of those who experienced them

Maita Gomez, Hilda Narciso, Nymia Sibulan, Karen Tañada Sister Sarah Manapol, and Mary John Mananzan Lualhati Bautista

In pursuit of freedom and peace, You all have inspired the masses, To advocate for our rights, And amplify each other's voices

The torched is passed to us now, So, we must keep the fire ablaze A burning passion for activism, Despite the fears, it may raise.

May their stories inspire us, To pursue our own liberation, Cause despite the harm and terror, Women stood up to the dictator

Women Through Time

By: Nicole Gabrielle Gloria

Women through time, a story to tell, Of courage and strength, where legends dwell

From the dawn of civilization to this day, They have shaped the world in every way

In ancient times, they stood as queens, Ruling their lands with grace and means Cleopatra, Hatshepsut, and Nefertiti, Their beauty and wisdom, a true rarity

In the middle ages, they faced great strife, But Joan of Arc led them to new life Eleanor of Aquitaine and her kind, Laid the groundwork for a modern mind

In the Renaissance, they were muses, The inspiration for artists' fuses From Mona Lisa to Shakespeare's verse, They were the essence of beauty and worth

In the 20th century, they fought for rights, Suffragettes who stood up for their plight Rosa Parks, Malala, and Thatcher, Their voices were heard, a powerful factor

Today, women are still making their mark, Breaking barriers, leaving their spark In the fields of science, arts, and politics, They are carving out their paths, no gimmicks

Women through time, their legacy grand, A testament to their strength and demand May we celebrate them and their ways, And continue their progress for all days

MY MOTHER, MY SAVIOR: Ode to the Light of Our Homes

They, who give their all, Real sacrifices they make every day, A person who might not be fair and tall, “That is my mother!”, I say

Wakes up at three, Ready to face the challenges she sees Cooks breakfast and makes me tea, I appreciate the simple things she does for me

Stays up all day, and sleeps at midnight, She does to provide for the family with all her might Even when she’s tired, she still makes dinner a sight, And the last thing I hear at the end of the day is her “Goodnight.”

A stressful day takes a toll on me, Tires my mind and weakens my knees. But a gentle touch from her loving hands Eases my worn-out self, And sinks my anxiety like quicksand

A mother who is also a father, Works day in and day out for her son and daughter.

A woman who acts like a man and carries everything on her shoulder, I salute your bravery and strength to face obstacles head-on without falter

A father who is also a mother, Serves his family even without the help of the other. A man who acts like a woman and cares tirelessly for his son and daughter, I appreciate your hard work to make your children’s lives better

A mother who lost her dearest one, No one can ever imagine the pain of losing someone so dear It would be wrong to say she’ll recover on day fiftyone.

It would be difficult to comfort her when her happiness has been cut But all the pain she feels only shows That she will always be a loving mother, no matter what

A person who works abroad, Willingly serves others without complaints and flaws

Hopes the time is near to be with their families at dawn

Real-life superheroes who deserve our applause

They come in different shapes and forms, But only have love to give with all their hearts The kind of love that gives you warmth, The kind that transforms, The love that calms a thunderstorm

It is not easy raising a whole family, Waking up so early to feed the bunch, And sleeping so late to make everything for tomorrow ready

Repeating the whole process time and time again, I am in awe of your resilience and ability to take on so much

They, who give their all, Real sacrifices they make every day, A person who might not be fair and tall, “That is my mother!”, I proudly say

By: Christine Angela Endrina

Sex Work is a Work:

A

Sheer Exploited Reality of Prostituted Women and Gender-Based Violence

The world is beautiful, My mother shines radiant and wise She gives me food, she gives me comfort

But she leaves me lonesome at night

I fall asleep wondering how she’ll greet me when a new morning arise

Though bruised and tired, she offers me a warm smile

The world is beautiful, but my mother suffers at night

The world grows wider as time passes by My older sister is beautiful and spry

She gives me hugs and kisses me goodnight

Once more, I fall asleep knowing her love-filled eyes

Alas, it was the last I’ll ever see her alive…

The world grows dimmer as time passes by

The world is kind, just and bright

I follow this man and leave my siblings behind

For a roof over our heads, and a future to find

For my sister to go to school, smiling wide

For my brother to breathe, no longer ailing and cry

For my family, I’d sell my soul to sick predators who lie

The world is kind, yet it contains injustices alike

The world is dreadful, I tell no lie

It hounds sisters, mothers, It drags girls, WOMEN to vilify their lives

To be abused and be bruised, To lose life and leave loved one ’ s agonized To sacrifice themselves and face injustice, futures seized stolen and compromised

The world is dreadful, I tell no lie

The world is beautiful, but it let's women suffer to die the world is wide, and it’s filled with uncertainties, I testify the world is kind, but it’s laden with daggers inside the world is dreadful, yet it doesn’t have to be, I tell no lie So we must remember, sear these truths in one ’ s mind Of one ’ s longing for a better world, amongst us Women thrive best in an environment just Just that does not wrong one ’ s dignity or trust

Trust of each person ’ s right to be treated as above such Such is a woman ’ s rightful status in this world, each one of us

by: Leih Jocelle Solidad

Hey, Chunky Lady

by: Althea Montecillo

hey, chunky lady, they say squeeze yourself and try to take a lesser space, oh, you are a few pounds extra, such a disgrace! if only you’re not fat, then at least you’d fit in perhaps, starve yourself until you get thin

hey, chunky lady, they say your waist is too wide, your arms are too flabby we’re looking for petite girls, small and pretty slim and slender like a play dough moulded perfectly but your size is just too big for this kind of society

hey, chunky lady, i think they’re right that you’re chunky and large as they say,

and yes, you’re few pounds extra but i think that’s okay their expectations are not yours to meet, you’re beautiful whether you do or do not fit

hey, chunky lady, your body is wild, and loose, and free, it takes up space, and as it should be it’s brave and bold, far from their fragile femininity you’re large and loud and I think that's your beauty

i had an

NOT LIKE OTHER GIRLS"

here's what i learned & why i don't recommend it!

By: Andree O. Sibonga

"I'M phase.

FROM being the butt of the joke in several TikTok skits, the subject of analysis in numerous video essays, or a way you might describe an annoying girl you have encountered, the phrase “Pick-Me” has been gaining traction and usage in the last couple of years It seems like time and time again, there is always a recurring phenomenon that young girls start rejecting typically girly activities or interests in order to have some individuality or social superiority. We may think that this is a recent case, but history says otherwise! Some of the Pick-Me Girl’s earlier forms were the 1950’s “Greaser Girl,” who rose as a protest against the fervent conservatism of the period, and the 80’s and 90’s “Grunge Model,” known for her unwavering stance on self-expression and societal norms And if you were an active Tumblr user during the platform’s heyday in the early 2010’s, young girls of our generation (including me) have fallen victim to the “I’m not like other girls!” mindset.

Characterized as a quirky and fun girl who prefer Converse over high heels, watching Netflix instead of partying, and isn’t afraid to *dramatic gasp* eat pizza? Being not like other girls was something that I as a tween with low self-esteem resonated with But what started out as lighthearted humor in memes, searching for my individuality and my uniqueness from other girls negatively developed into unhealthy comparisons to feed the illusion of my superiority from the “other girls.” I did not realize back then that me wanting to separate myself from conventionally girly things rooted in my own insecurities, and that instead what I was doing was counterproductive and even damaging in the long run Besides the superficial setbacks I face now like not knowing how to do my own makeup, having a hard time figuring out my style, and many more, my past internalized misogyny has not only made me more distant with the female figures in my life, but I feel like I missed out on a lot of potential female friendships and experiences.

However, my “I'm Not Like Other Girls” era offers me another perspective on today’s Pick-me girls Instead of looking at them mockingly in the exaggerated caricatures that these TikTok creators have created, I look at these young girls with sympathy and hope that they will get over this phase soon. In an effort to avoid misogyny, girls like me go through this phase, but in doing so, they end up supporting it. This is due to the fact that they are supporting the idea that femininity and people who engage in it are inferior A critical first step in our feminist path is realizing that the patriarchy actively promotes the idea that femininity is inferior with the goal of maintaining the social subordination of those who present as feminine. So ladies, let’s make it a point to be unapologetic and unafraid when indulging ourselves in all things girly and/or feminine. Wear pink, do your make-up, strap on your highest heels, and be the best woman you can be!