The Local Government Unit of Binalonan on March 8 celebrated the International Women’s Day through the Purple Friday Campaign.
During the Purple Friday Campaign, an advocacy activity initiated by the Philippine Commission on Women, both male and female advocates wear purple as a sign of support to women’s rights and gender equality, to break gender stereotypes, and stop gender-based violence and discrimination.
With the theme “We Make Change Work for Women,” the municipal government supports the national call for gender equality and recognition for the contribution of women in society.
Municipal Councilor Marie Anne Baybayan, chairperson, Committee on Women and Children, requested the male and female employees to wear purple shirts to raise public awareness and as a sign of support to the campaign.
As part of the celebration, the local government offered free Tuk-tuk rides from 8 o’clock in the morning until 6 in the evening within Binalonan to commuters who were wearing purple-colored shirts.
Binalonan Mayor Ramon V. Guico III, who led the convoy, drove one of the Grab Trike vehicles from the Binalonan Municipal Hall to the University of Eastern Pangasinan to offer free rides to some students and employees.
The International Women’s Day is observed annually every March 8 to celebrate women’s achievements throughout history and across nations.