Progressive groups Gabriela Southern Mindanao, Gabriela Youth Davao, and Sabokahan are urging women to join a rally on March 8, 2026, at Freedom Park on Roxas Avenue to commemorate International Working Women’s Day. The groups, led by Rose Hayahay, secretary-general of Gabriela-Southern Mindanao, are calling for the abolition of the 12 percent value-added tax (VAT) on basic commodities and accountability for the massive corruption in the Philippines. Hayahay cited that many families are struggling due to low minimum wage and inflation, making it difficult for mothers to budget for their families’ needs. Allyssa Ancheta, chairperson of Gabriela Youth Davao, also called for accountability from corrupt politicians, who she said are using the country’s budget for their own gain instead of funding programs that benefit women’s welfare. The groups are advocating for the abolition of the 12 percent VAT on basic goods to uplift women’s welfare and will reaffirm that women’s liberation is inseparable from the fight for economic justice and genuine democracy during the rally, which is expected to be attended by at least 300 individuals and has the theme “International Working Women’s Day 2026: Kababayen-an, Makigbisog! Isalikway ug Panubagon ang Korap, Palisod, ug Pasistang Rehimeng US-Marcos-Duterte.”
