Regional/Cultural Day
Araw ng Kababaihan
The day is observed with rallies, protests, and demands for equal rights, an end to domestic violence, and recognition of women's contributions to the economy. The Philippines has one of the highest rates of gender equality in Asia and has had two female presidents (Corazon Aquino and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo), but the day is still a reminder that more needs to be done. The Gabriela Women's Party, the largest women's organization in the country, leads the march in Manila. The day includes speeches, concerts, and the wearing of purple.