While March marks Women’s Month in the Philippines, the fight for gender equality continues far beyond it. As raised in Hoy! Bawal ‘Yan!, the question remains: “Buwan ng Marso ginugunita ang Buwan ng Kababaihan. Pero dapat ba tuwing Marso lang?”

According to Atty. Renee Co and Kabataan Partylist Representative, many Filipino women still face economic hardship, discrimination, and violence. Noting also how rising costs and unequal expectations affect women, especially workers and mothers.

Despite existing laws, gender-based issues persist in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. “Andyan pa rin yung iba’t ibang layers ng discrimination, misogyny, at violence against women,” she emphasized.

To address these, proposed measures include the Expanded VAWC Act, amendments to anti-rape laws, and stronger Safe Spaces protections. These also aim to protect LGBTQIA+ individuals from discrimination. “Gusto natin matamasa ang isang lipunan na wala ng discrimination at nararamdaman ng lahat ng kasarian na pantay-pantay sila,” Co added.

The Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710) remains a key legal framework, promoting gender equality and protecting women’s rights. However, gaps in implementation remain. “Nakakadismaya na hanggang ngayon siyempre hindi parin natin nakikita kung gaano kaepektibo ang mga polisiya,” Co noted. “Ang mga polisiya, hindi yan self-executing,” she added, stressing the need for stronger enforcement and accountability.

Ultimately, achieving equality requires collective action and cultural change. As Co concluded, “Hangarin nating pantay-pantay ang lipunan.”

Women’s Month, then, is not just a celebration—but a continuing call to action.