City of Firsts marks International Women’s Day by honoring every Filipina
In a world that continues to evolve, one truth remains: women have always been at the heart of progress. This International Women’s Day, Araneta City proudly stands as a beacon of empowerment, inviting everyone to join in a celebration of strength, leadership, and equality.
From March 8 onwards, the City of Firsts honors women’s achievements and propels them higher to meet their greatest potential. Under the theme #HerTimeIsNow, this year’s festivities serve as a powerful call to action—a declaration that women’s voices, visions, and victories deserve to take center stage. Through immersive activities, inspiring conversations, and creative showcases, Araneta City amplifies the advocacies that push the cause of Filipinas forward.
Programs for women, led by women
The celebration kicks off on March 8 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for exhibits to be opened at Gateway Mall 2 and Farmers Plaza.
In the morning, the #SeeHerHustle Creations Fair will open at Farmers Plaza to highlight female-led businesses and the incredible journeys and advocacies behind them. Included in the ceremony are a belly dancing performance, a live art painting session, and a dried flower arrangement workshop to inspire women who are looking to turn their creativity into thriving enterprises.
In the afternoon, the #HerVision exhibit will open at Gateway Mall 2 to feature breathtaking works by female artists. The program will also have a song performance, a live art painting session, and a thought-provoking forum led by Pinays in the fields of healthcare, business, arts, and pageantry.
Must-visit activities for her
The celebration in Araneta City extends beyond March 8, with the #SeeHerHustle Creations Fair and the #HerVision exhibit running until March 13.
Over at Gateway Mall 1, the #WomenInBusiness POP QC Women’s Month Bazaar provides a vibrant marketplace where women entrepreneurs take center stage from March 12 to 16. This is more than just a shopping experience—it’s a testament to the brilliance and resilience of women in business.
Another striking highlight at Gateway Mall 2 is the #HerTimeIsNow Bag Art Installation, a towering masterpiece symbolizing the weight women carry and the space they rightfully claim in society, from March 8 to 13. Standing at an impressive 4 feet tall and 6 feet long, this installation is a must-see—and even more so, a must-share.
Community participation
For those who love a little digital fun, an exciting photo challenge from March 8 to 11 invites women to strike a pose with the #HerTimeIsNow bag installation and share their snapshots on social media.
The running community can also take part in the celebration with aRUNeta Run Club’s special Women’s Day event on March 9. Participants will receive handmade crocheted purple ribbon shoe charms, symbolizing the contributions of women in every stride of life. Wearing purple is encouraged, and lucky runners may even take home special prizes through a raffle.
And to make the celebration even sweeter, a special treat at World Kitchens is waiting—because every woman deserves to indulge in something special on her day.
“Women have always been instrumental in shaping our communities, businesses, and families. At Araneta City, we are committed to celebrating their contributions and advocating for their continued empowerment,” Marjorie Go, VP for Marketing of Araneta City, said. “#HerTimeIsNow is not just a theme—it’s a reminder that women deserve every opportunity to lead, create, and thrive.”
Started in 1927, the Philippines Graphic is the longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.
