“UP Tacloban community continues the celebration of Women’s Month with the annual One Billion Rising movement and the release of the Women’s Manifesto, reinforcing the fight against gender-based violence and systemic oppression. The event took place at 4:00 PM on March 17 at the AS Grounds.

In line with the theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” UP Bahaghari, in collaboration with the Student Council, led a signature campaign for the Women’s Manifesto. The manifesto highlights the struggles women face across various sectors, addressing issues such as harassment, discrimination, and systemic barriers. It calls for concrete actions and policy reforms to advance gender equality.

It also underscores the urgent need to revise the university’s outdated anti-sexual harassment code, which many argue fails to protect students.

“The code continues to burden women and other sectors who still face harassment within the university,” said Paul Lachica of UP Bahaghari. The group, along with student leaders, is pushing for stronger policies and institutional reforms to ensure a safer campus.

This initiative is one of many organized for Women’s Month, with more events aimed at raising awareness and addressing the challenges women continue to face.”