This year’s National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC) aimed to celebrate the achievements of women, examine gender equality efforts, and look ahead to the steps that must be taken to ensure development in society.
History would tell us that women find it more difficult to prove their worth in society. They have fewer options and options in terms of opportunities. However, through time, women across the globe rose to the occasion and become game changers and trend setters in different fields.
As the country celebrated women’s month in March, a 52-year old widow shared her story of success on how she overcame the challenges in her life for the past 21 years.
“When my husband died, I did not know how I was going to raise my six children without him,” remembered Marceline Evasco.
In 2004, her husband died of intestinal cancer. Marceline had to work to feed her family. She was worried about making enough money to provide for her children. The only time she felt comforted was when she found refuge in the church.
“Our life back then was difficult especially that I was the only one in the family who was capable of providing their needs,” claimed Evasco.
She narrated: “My eldest child insisted to work so that she can help me. At first, I was reluctant because I want all of them to continue their education. She was so determined to work because my second child was also in college at that time and we could not afford the tuition fees.”
Because of this, Evasco worked on their little farm. Later on, she went to Baguio City to peddle few vegetables at the Hilltop Market.
“I also tried to be a ‘labandera’ in Katipunan Inn and collected scraps such as mineral bottle containers, cans, plastics and many more around La Trinidad and Baguio City,” recalled Evasco.
“I did all of this for my family and I am thankful to God because all my sacrifices paid off. My eldest child now have a stable job. Two of my children are policemen. One of my children topped the board exam for criminology and he chose to be a lawyer and passed the bar exams, thereafter. Two of my children are still studying and I know that with the help of our faith coupled with hard-work, they too will achieve their desires,” claimed Evasco.
“A strong woman would be able to understand her experiences and resolve with courage the challenges along her way. Look back and reflect on those experiences,” ended Evasco. **Stephanie Inggoy, BSU-DevCom Intern
