Based on the Philippine Commission on Women (2025), the 2025 National Women’s Month Celebration in the Philippines focuses on gender equality and women’s empowerment with the theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas.” This year’s celebration highlights women’s important role in society and encourages them to achieve their full potential. It aligns with the broader goal of fostering inclusivity and transforming cultural norms for a more equal future. Through various activities, this celebration serves as a platform to highlight the vital roles women play in nation-building while advocating for policies that promote equity.
In Balanga City, the Schools Division Office (SDO-Balanga) joins the nationwide celebration with a unique initiative called “Purple Wednesdays.” Teachers and staff are encouraged to wear purple or violet clothing every Wednesdays of March to symbolize their support for gender equality and women’s empowerment. This simple yet impactful gesture fosters solidarity within the community while raising awareness about the importance of women’s rights. Such efforts reflect the province’s commitment to advancing gender equality, complementing other local activities like trade fairs and advocacy campaigns that celebrate women’s achievements.
Despite these commendable initiatives, challenges remain in achieving true gender equality. Issues such as unequal access to leadership roles, gender-based violence, and systemic discrimination continue to hinder progress. The Women’s Month celebration provides an opportunity to address these concerns through promoting dialogue and action. Particularly, in Balanga, events like women-led flag-raising ceremonies and all-women sessions serve as platforms for meaningful discussions on these challenges. These activities not only honor women’s contributions but also call for sustained efforts to break down barriers that limit their potential.
As part of this initiative, the 2024 National Women’s Month Celebration is a powerful reminder of the need for a society that values and empowers women. Initiatives like “Purple Wednesdays” in SDO-Balanga exemplify how communities can actively participate in this advocacy. As the Philippines moves toward a Bagong Pilipinas, this celebration reinforces the vision of an inclusive society where women are not only celebrated but also given equal opportunities to thrive.