Gabriela Solons & Women Officials Present Platform of Good Governance for 2010, Call on Junking 'Con-Ass'

As culmination of the two-day National Women’s Training on Gender and Politics, Gabriela solons Liza Maza and Luzviminda Ilagan and local government women officials and potential candidates today present the women’s platform of good governance in response to the current national situation.

Women leaders named this women’s platform “Ten for 2010” highlighting the need for new and progressive politics for women anchored on public service, love of country, genuine desire for equality, justice, real political, economic and social changes, and inspired by the basic issues of women and the people.

Maza said that this women’s platform for good governance manifests the commitment toward the achievement of women empowerment in Philippine society through active, equitable and substantive participation and representation, both in the national and local government. It further poses a challenge to improve the quality of life of women, protecting, promoting and fulfilling the basic rights and welfare of women and their children against all forms of violence and discrimination, improving societal views about women, pursuing real political and social changes and eliminating the inequities that prevent women from dynamically participating in local and national politics and governance.

Among the delegates of the National Women’s Training are local government women officials such as Atty. Angela Libado of Davao City, Dr.Susan Pungalan of Caloocan, Luisa Gallardo-Juan of Isabela, Ma.Lorna Cristobal of Legaspi City, Nepthalie Natividad of General Santos City, Atty.Jocelle Batapa-Sigue of Bacolod, Mary Grace Lobaton of Iloilo and other potential women candidates from all over the country.

The women leaders also slammed the much-detested ‘Con-Ass’ being pushed by President Arroyo’s allies in the House of Representatives saying that this measure will only worsen the current economic and political crisis.

“Once and for all, President Arroyo must end this cycle of deception and manipulation. There is a resounding clamor against Con-Ass from the people. It is very clear that there is no public support in this agenda to extend her term and that of her allies beyond 2010,” the delegates said.

“If Malacañang insists on pushing for Con-Ass, the united Filipino people are also more than ready to combat this plot. As Arroyo’s last SONA draws near, the people gear for the nationwide indignation protest against Con-Ass as these local government officials also vow to support it,” Maza concluded.