As we celebrate International Women’s Day, the Center for Development Programs in the Cordillera (CDPC) honors the tireless efforts of women who are courageously advancing their rights through various initiatives amid the obstacles and injustices they encounter. We take pride in recognizing the remarkable contributions of women who are valued partners in promoting sustainable agriculture, as they play a vital role in shaping more resilient and environmentally friendly farming practices.
Women are leading the way in sustainable agriculture by enhancing traditional agroecological practices, learning to develop biopesticides and foliar fertilizers, and adopting innovative rice planting methods that complement their traditional knowledge.
It is essential to acknowledge the invaluable work of women like Petronila Guzman, Marcylyn Pilala, Sarah Abellon, and Jennifer Awingan, who have faced unjust accusations and threats as Women Human Rights Defenders. Their bravery in the face of adversity underscores the urgent need for justice and an end to State-perpetrated violence. We reiterate our call for the State to drop all trumped-up charges against these defenders and ensure their safety and that of their families.
In Indigenous communities threatened by hydropower proposals, such as the Saltan Dams in Kalinga, women are at the forefront of resistance and advocacy, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to environmental justice and ancestral land rights.
Furthermore, women human rights advocates have contributed to the lobby work for the passage of the Human Rights Defenders ordinance in Baguio City, showcasing the power of collective action in shaping policy and safeguarding human rights. As we celebrate these achievements, we recognize that there is still much work to be done.
We urge governments, organizations, and individuals to join us in accelerating action for gender equality. We reaffirm our commitment to supporting the struggles of women and advocating for a world where their voices are heard, their rights are respected, and their contributions are valued. We envision a future where every woman can live, free from discrimination and violence.