Gabriela and its chapters in different provinces and countries marked International Working Women’s Day on March 8 with militant actions under the theme “Women, dare to struggle! Remove VAT! Hold the corrupt accountable!”

Its members, together with various national-democratic groups, held a program at Liwasang Bonifacio, defying the Manila local government’s refusal to grant a permit. The LGU used the so-called ASEAN Summit from February to December this year as its pretext for the ban. The group’s insistence forced the local government to clarify that it “did not deny” the permit for the mobilization.

During the program, different groups discussed women’s issues and the crisis’ impact on their respective sectors. The cultural group Sining Lila and other groups offered performances. They concluded the program by dancing to the “One Billion Rising” song to demand ending all forms of violence against women. They also demanded the removal of the 12% VAT and for an end to corruption and militarization.

“March 8 is the theater of Filipino women who are clamoring for urgent relief and genuine social change! It is the women’s day of reckoning for the stolen taxes of the people! It is the day of holding all accountable all those involved in rampant corruption in government, from the bottom to the very top!” Gabriela secretary general Clarice Palce declared.

After the Liwasang Bonifacio program, women marched to the US embassy to condemn imperialist aggression and plunder that severely worsens the suffering of millions of women worldwide. Upon reaching Kalaw Avenue, the police blocked the groups and assaulted several women leaders. They concluded the activity there with a short program and by burning the effigy of Trump, Netanyahu, and Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

In other regions, Gabriela chapters protested in Davao City; Carbon Public Market in Cebu; Legazpi City Public Market in Albay; Naga City, Camarines Sur; Bacoor City, Cavite; and Baguio City Public Market in Baguio City. They also held a forum in Iloilo City.

In other countries, Migrante BC in Vancouver and Gabriela Australia held programs. Chapters also joined the marking of International Women’s Day in their respective base countries, including Pinay sa Holland in Rotterdam, Netherlands; Gabriela Germany in Gesundbrunnen, Germany; Pinay sa Quebec in Tiohtià:ke, Montreal, Canada; and Bayan Washington in Tacoma, Washington, US. With marking Women’s Day, Gabriela USA and other organizations in New York protested to condemn the presence of Ferdinand Marcos Jr in the city. Gabriela Hong Kong, Migrante France, Migrante Bologna, Migrante Japan, and Migrante Thailand also expressed their solidarity.