Woman in Vigan: Inspiring and Empowered

June 07, 2021

In the earlier centuries, women have suffered a great deal at the hands of men. The role of women was limited to housekeeping and childrearing. Women were stereotyped as reserved, shy, and submissive. Men were in command; they were the boss, and they were treated like gods. Asserting male dominance in all aspects of life, diminishing the role of women, as though they didn't exist. This stereotypical barrier divides and hinders equality for all genders.

As the times passed, women realized their power. There on began the revolution for women empowerment and liberation. The people’s desire to eliminate all distinctions between men and women became stronger, resulting in revolutions and advocacies, creating women to become pioneers of change and therefore ensuing freedom and equality.

It is wonderful and fulfilling to see that women are finally receiving the rights they have long fought for, but there is still a long way to go. Acknowledging that men and women coexist in our world is necessary. Gender equality is, first and foremost, a human right. Therefore, there must be equality and a non-zero sum game for both men and women.

Women are very essential members of society and the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the critical roles that women play not just in their own families but also in their communities. Women stand at the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis, as health care workers, caregivers, innovators, community organizers and as some of the most exemplary and effective national leaders in combating the pandemic.

Throughout history up to the present day, many Biguenas have greatly influenced and revolutionized the nation we live in. They have made a significant difference by their exceptional contributions and selfless sacrifices. From revolutionaries such as Gabriela Silang, a fearless warrior and the first Filipina to lead an uprising against foreign power. Leona Florentino, a poetess regarded as the "Mother of Philippine Women's Literature”. Mayor Eva Marie Medina, the former mayor of Vigan, who was a remarkable leader during her tenure in office. Biguena doctors and nurses from all over the country and the world, fighting COVID-19 in the frontlines, constantly putting their own life on the line to save the lives of others. Biguena teachers, who give their best efforts to provide their students quality education amid the pandemic. All of the Biguenas who became a symbol for womanhood and brought honor to our country in various fields both locally and worldwide. Our mothers, who shoulder a large portion of workload both in our homes and their workplaces. To all Filipinas, all the ordinary Biguenas, who play a role in their families, communities and country.

They are our modern-day heroes: women – our mothers, grandmothers, aunts and many more who have contributed greatly in our lives and country. It is important to acknowledge and appreciate their efforts, as well as to thank them for their hard work and sacrifice.