Today is International Women’s Day 2008. Today is a global day of recognition and celebration across developed and developing countries alike. Everywhere in the world today, organizations and governments observe IWD on March 8 by holding large-scale events that honour women’s advancement.

Our office has celebrated IWD since 2006. This year, our theme again focused on women’s achievements. Despite the numerous guests speakers in our event from whom I learned a lot, I will only passionately write about the three inspiring Filipina women who have stirred my deepest emotions.

Our event was held at the grand ballroom of a well-known hotel in Makati. All the participants (including myself) were all dressed up in formal corporate attire and made up beautifully. The room was charged with corporate ambience that was shaken when 3 proud jeans-clad petite women walked the aisles to the stage. An AVP was being shown on the widescreen in front as they were doing their walk. The video, that showed pictures of their trek and climb to the top of mount everest touched me to the core. I felt such deep pride that I felt like choking in tears.

Janet Belarmino was the first to speak. She talked in flawless english about how she had just given birth to a child and had to make a choice to leave and conquer mount everest. Carina Dayondon also spoke about her choice to leave the family and siblings she was supporting to make the climb with the Everest team. Noelle in turn talked about how they found a greater reason for climbing mount everest than just because they are mountaineers. They were made to realize that they want to do this because they will bring pride to their countrymen and fellow filipinas.

Three tiny women from the Philippines went over and above their capabilities to become the first asian women to reach the summit of mount everest and even cross it… a feat that has only been braved by mostly men…. until now. These filipinas are smart, strong and truly inspiring. They are what makes me proud to become a woman and a filipina.

Some quotes:
"Sabi ng nanay ko wag na daw ako umakyat, mamatay lang daw ako don. Sabi nya - maganda ka pa naman."…. by Carina
"It was so cold. We realized then that there had to be something more that will make us stay in this team."… by Noelle
"I had just given birth to my child. I named him Himalaya."… by Janet

To me, they were the perfect people to inspire us on this special day… International Women’s Day. Cheers!

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