In celebration of International Women's Day, some well-known Filipino personalities took the chance to recognize and salute women.
On March 8, 2023, these 10 Filipinas updated their respective Instagram accounts with tributes that prove women are unstoppable when they build each other up, support each other's strengths and capacities, and applaud each other's successes.
Read also: 20 Pinoy teleserye heroines who embodied women empowerment
Liza Soberano
Liza Soberano underlined the importance to "celebrate the empowered women in our lives and in our communities." This is why she chose to spend the day with Save the Children organization, which she has been supporting for the past three years.
The 25-year-old actress started a healthy conversation about teenage pregnancy that led to promoting the passage of the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill.
She wrote, "I was born to a teenage mother, who got pregnant at age 17. She struggled with the responsibilities of motherhood and had to endure the pain and hardships of teenage motherhood.
"This is why I know first hand why it is so important to address this issue, both for the sake of young women and for their children. Too long have we avoided this tough conversation that is needed for change to happen."
KC Concepcion
Actress-entrepreneur and socialite KC Concepcion cited herself as an example that women are ever-evolving as they grow "stronger, smarter, happier, and more resilient than ever."
KC then quipped, "although minsan- aminin! ‘di natin kinakaya everyday."
She continued, "Here's to all the women who have persevered, pursued new dreams, and come out even stronger, sharper, and more inspired on the other side. KEEP BLOOMING!"
Read also: KC Concepcion speaks up about being body-shamed; proud of her “Latina curves”
Kris Bernal
Mothers were given a special mention by Kris Bernal, who is currently pregnant with her first child.
A part of her lengthy post read: "Our bodies are divine. I still can’t believe I’m growing a human inside me.
"I want to take this opportunity to uplift all mothers and appreciate them for trying their best to nurture their families. Here’s a little reminder that all of your sacrifices never go unnoticed.
"Let’s keep slaying and inspiring each and every woman!"
Read also: Kris Bernal celebrates weight gain in Palawan trip photos
Hidilyn Diaz
The Philippines' first Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz took time to appreciate women who are trailblazers and game changers: "Women can be a HERO [emoji] You can’t spell a HERO, without HER!
"Let’s continue to make a difference and celebrate the strength, resilience and achievements of women everywhere.
"Happy International Women’s Day to all the amazing and courageous women in the world."
In addition, Hidilyn's husband and coach Julius Naranjo penned an empowering message for her. It read: "You embody the meaning of what this day stands for. You empower women around the world and proven that beauty can come with strength."
Read also: Zia Dantes starts gymnastics lessons with Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz
Iya Villania
TV host Iya Villania dedicated a special post to the ladies behind the accomplishment of the Taytay family home she and husband Drew Arellano are building.
She wrote, "Shout out to these beautiful women who made this tiny home dream come to life [emoji] I know not many can finish a build/renovation and say that they loved their team, but I was really blessed with these girls.
"Interior designer @chinelalau and Architect @jilligomez [emoji] Just thought it would be perfect to flex you ladies this #InternationalWomensDay
"I mean, come on… how often does the actual build look even better than the render?!"
Read also: Are Iya Villania, Drew Arellano hinting at having baby no. 5?
Sofia Andres
Kapamilya actress Sofia Andres was all about giving her friends the recognition they deserve.
Sofia wrote of Pamela Andres, élan wear designer: "Can I just say that I am so proud of you and I’m a fan of who you’ve become.
"We’ve been thru ups and downs and that made our connection stronger as cousins and as maarte human beings.
"Congratulations to your new collection. You did it! — still clapping. Reciprocating the love you deserve."
Read also: Sofia Andres on why she isn't married to partner Daniel Miranda yet
Maxene Magalona
Humility is key for yoga instructor and actress Maxene Magalona, who shared a long, poetic post that compared women to artists.
An excerpt from her piece read: "She is not ashamed of her past nor is she worried about the future. She is here now. Breathing and living authentically. She is free.
"She is an artist—the creator of her life. Her healing is her art and her pain is her paint. She doesn’t just choose the pretty colors to work with.
"She sees all hues, all emotions and experiences, as beautiful and enriching. Life truly is as magical as a rainbow.
"She is me. She is you. She is us.
"Happy #InternationalWomensDay to all my sisters in the Universe"
Read also: Maxene Magalona on "bakit hindi pa po kayo mag-baby?" question: "Very triggering"
Zen Hernandez
Filipino journalist Zen Hernandez commended Canadian reporter Karen Pauls of CBC News on the special occasion.
Zen wrote, "I have to say that good things happen when women collaborate!
"Truly enjoyed working with @karenpaulscbcnews for the special report on nurses. Happy women’s day to you, Karen"
Zen also had an empowering message for women in another post.
"Ladies, our possibilities are endless!
"Don’t be constricted by what people say you can or cannot do. It’s 2023! Thanks to all the trailblazing women before us, there are more seats at the table and no mountains we can’t conquer."
Faith Da Silva
Rising Sparkle talent Faith Da Silva is among the young stars who are not afraid to express their sexuality—and it's all thanks to the empowered women who've got her back.
The 21-year-old actress wrote in her International Women's Day post, "I was raised by strong women and that showed me the true power of womanhood!!
"Here’s to embracing our femininity [emoji]"
Read also: Faith da Silva asked if she had relationship with Albert Martinez: “Nagustuhan ko siya.”
Anna Valencia
Humanitarianism is like second nature to Binibining Pilipinas 2022 Bataan representative Anna Valencia.
Aside from being dedicated to the fulfilling purpose of pageantry, Anna is a Nutritional Science degree holder who advocates for accessible and affordable nutrition. She also speaks out against gender inequality.
In her post, Anna shared that she aims to use her expertise and experience in building healthier and safer spaces in the country: "Together, we can build an inclusive and equal Philippine society.
"For this year's National Women’s Month Celebration, with the theme, 'WE for gender equality and inclusive society', let us be reminded of our commitment to spread awareness on women empowerment and promote our advocacy in closing the gender gaps in our country."
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