Ang Pahayagan

Women leaders from the Association of Women In Theology (AWIT) and Office of Women and Gender Concerns, a Mission Partner of the Conference of Major Superiors in the Philippines sent a letter of urgent appeal for the proclamation of Gabriela Women’s Party (GWP).

“When the COMELEC en banc canceled the registration of Duterte Youth Partylist and disqualified them, we saw a glimmer of hope. Sophia, wisdom, may have shepherded COMELEC in this decision-making,” the letter stated.

The church women leaders requested that COMELEC allocate the seats to the next qualified party-lists, including GWP. GWP has a substantial history of sincerely representing the marginalized in the halls of power.

“We, women of faith, have witnessed their shining testimony, and with our request on their behalf, we are honoring the spirit of the 1987 Philippines Constitution that recognizes the importance of the voice, vote and position of the marginalized in crafting laws and policies,” said Rev. Irma Balaba, a Protestant church leader.

“The party-list system is intended as a parliamentary opportunity for the poor. GWP has faithfully served poor women, girls, and children. Among the bills Gabriela carried and help pass into law are the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, Anti-violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004, and the Magna Carta of Women. GWP will continue in meaningful service, promoting good governance and adding to the credibility of the House of Representatives, should they be immediately proclaimed,” Balaba added.

“Gabriela Women’s party brings pride to the name of our hero Gabriela Silang. They have continued her work, championing the cause of defending sovereignty, human rights, peace, justice, and pro-people governance,” Deaconess Bless de Leon, Co-Coordinator of AWIT, said.

Mo. Mary John Mananzan added: “As women of faith, we recognize our strength as Filipino women as a manifestation of spirituality that is beyond piety and religiosity. We strive to advocate for women’s empowerment, promoting the meaningful participation of women in crafting laws and in effecting change in the lives of women, men, youth and children in the world today. GWP has served with honor, dignity and pride. They have diligently served their constituents.”