All the Days of March, Part 6

The month of March was also the month dedicated to women all over the world. The United Nations on March 8 celebrated the yearly International Women’s Day. As a matter of history, the first gathering of women to celebrate International Women’s Day happened in 1911.

International Women’s Day and International Women’s Month should not be considered as an avenue for a pivotal discussion on who is the more superior gender. It is not about feminism. Although this year’s theme is “Balance for Better,” to me, the worldwide day and month for women is not even about gender equality. It is a day and a month of collective efforts of all – both men and women – who care about human rights.

Philippine Laws that protect women

Republic Act (RA) 6725 strengthens the prohibition on discrimination against women with respect to terms and conditions of employment.

RA 6972 is a Law establishing a day care center in every barangay for the total development and protection of children.

RA 7192. Enacted in 1991, it is a law promoting the integration of women as full and equal partners of men in development and nation building and for other purposes.

RA 7322 is an Act increasing maternity benefits in favor of women workers in the private sector.

RA 7600 mandates all government and private institutions with obstetrical services to adopt rooming-in and breastfeeding practices.

RA 7688 is an Act giving representation of women in the Social Security Commission.

RA 7822 was passed into law for the assistance to women engaging in micro and cottage business enterprises and other purposes.

RA 8353 expands the definition of the crime of rape. It also defines and includes marital rape.

RA 8369 establishes Family Courts and granting them exclusive original jurisdiction to hear and decide cases pertaining to child, women, and family issues.

RA 9262 is an Act defining violence against women and their children and providing protective measures for victims and prescribing penalties for perpetrators.