Bb Pilipinas 2014: Candidates join International Women’s Day celebration

Binibinis join International Womens Day celebrations. ALL PHOTOS BY BRUCE CASSANOVA

TO REPRESENT the Philippines in the world’s most prestigious pageants is a responsibility. A Binibini must embody the strength and character of Filipinas and they should champion women empowerment. That’s why it is only apt that this year’s Bb Pilipinas candidates joined the International Women’s Day celebration last March 8.

The Binibinis also shared their thoughts on issues regarding women.

Binibini 31 Angelique Celine De Leon on what women can do for society: “Women can do a lot of things in society, and we are privileged to be living in an age where we can enjoy freedom to pursue things we want to do and achieve. For me, as a Binibini, I can inspire women to become better versions of themselves and we advocate women to be empowered Filipinas.”

Binibini 3 Joanna Angelica Romero (first from left) on gender equality in the Philippines: “We are blessed that the Philippines is ranked number 5 in the world for gender equality based on a survey. But at the same time, there are still problems that need to be addressed like abuse in women. But it’s a good thing that we have programs that cater to the abused and empower women.” Binibini 1 Juliane Aurine Flores (first from right) on women’s day festivities in the country: “I am happy that there is a day for women to be recognized and it’s also an important day for us to be aware of women’s issues. I think awareness is key to solve a lot of social issues women are facing.”

Binibini 22 Mary Anne Bianca Guidotti on the women she looks up to: “I work with Noraida Abdullah Karim in CFSI (Community and Family Services International) and she is someone I look up to. She is a multi-awarded social worker who specializes in psychosocial care, and she has helped counsel countless women and children who underwent traumatic experiences in war-torn Mindanao. I admire her because of her passion for the advocacy.”

Binibini 5 Hannah Mariz dela Guerra on the biggest issues for women that should be addressed: “I read somewhere that the Philippines is a hotbed for human trafficking, and women are the most susceptible to this. There are women who are being exploited and violated and they were not given the choice to say no. So I think we should promote projects to push awareness on human trafficking.”

Binibini 28 Carla Jenina Lizardo on her advocacy for women if she were to win Bb Pilipinas: “I want to have an organization that would foster and support sexually abused teenagers. Like a big sister-little sister project that would help the victims. Because of my exposure to so many news stories on rape and abuse, it became something I feel strongly about.”

Binibini 5 Parul Shah on how a beauty queen could help promote women’s rights: “I would advocate gender equality. Everyone should be treated with mutual respect. Your race, your religion, your culture, or where you’re from-these things shouldn’t matter. Women should have the freedom to achieve anything they want in life.”

“This day made me realize the importance of gender equality — that women deserve to be treated equally with men and that women are able and capable of reaching their dreams. As a girl who underwent struggles in my life, I keep these thoughts in mind to fuel me to achieve my goals,” said Binibini 36 Krystal Alonday.

The event involved the film showing of documentary Girl Rising, sponsored by SPARK Philippines Inc (Samahan ng Mga Pilipina para sa Reporma at Kaunlaran), J. Amado Araneta Foundation, and the Araneta Center.