“KABABAIHAN, MABUHAY KA!”

March is women’s month that is celebrated in the Philippines. With a long history of the fight against inequality, March 8 was declared as International Women’s Day. The Sr. Teresa of Sto. Niño Center is one with the celebration of this year’s International Women’s Day, with the theme “Women in Leadership: Achieving an Equal Future in a COVID-19 World.”

In honor of all the women of the Center, the sisters, staff and volunteer teachers prepared a small celebration for the mothers. The mini program started with a prayer led by Sr. Sharon and it was followed by an ice breaker were all the mothers present danced to the song “Girl In The Mirror.” A short presentation about the history of Women’s Month was presented by Sr. Sharon. The lecture tackled the history of Women’s Month and when did the Philippines started celebrating this as well. Local rights and laws about women were also discussed so that the mothers will have a background and knowledge about their rights as a mother and as a woman. The program continues with another ice breaker were mothers danced again just to lose their inhibitions and feeling of embarrasment.

It was followed with a free haircut services by Sr. Clarynse and Sr. Daisel and manicure/pedicure by Amy Andaya were offered and given to the mothers to show the Center’s appreciation for all their tireless effort in helping in the Center and being a parent, and a woman. Smiles soon filled the multipurpose hall as the mothers enjoyed their snacks while being pampered without worrying even just for a day.

A beautiful woman draws strength from troubles, smiles during distress and grows stronger with prayers and hope. As Fr. Palau said, “I admire in you, God’s work,” let us be the voice for those who are silenced and lost their own. The Center encourages and empower every woman to manifest, raise their voice and fight for their right and equality. Kababaihan, mabuhay ka!