Women’s group Gabriela will stage a mass protest on March 8 for National Women’s Month, calling for the abolition of the 12% value-added tax (VAT) and accountability for government corruption.
The group said the VAT burdens ordinary Filipinos, especially workers and farmers, while minimum wages fail to cover basic goods and services.
Gabriela secretary-general Clarice Palce urged women to join the protest at Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila or in regional actions to denounce rising prices and misuse of public funds.
The organization highlighted high rates of child stunting (23.6%) and underweight (15.1%) among Filipino children, as well as limited access to health and education services.
Gabriela said the protest aims to unite voices against regressive taxes and systemic corruption that harm the country’s youth.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 28, 2026
