By Dennis Gorecho
The powerful drumbeats of the University of the Philippines (UP) Varsity Pep Drummers, combined with strong anti-misogyny messages, reverberated around the Academic Oval during the 4th Sunflower Run-Walk-Parade on March 21, 2026.
Sunflowers have long served as a potent symbol of women’s rights, particularly in the fight against misogyny, representing enlightenment, growth and the pursuit of equality.
“When wrong is defended, a culture of disrespect begins. Giving respect to women is not optional — it is an obligation,” said Atty. Dot Gancayco in her welcome speech.
With the theme “Pagpugay sa Kababaihan, Pag-asa Para sa Kabataan,” the annual event began in 2023 as part of the Women’s Month celebration within the UP community.
Officially recognized by the United Nations in 1977, International Women’s Day is observed every March 8 as a day to honor women’s achievements regardless of national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic, or political differences.
March was declared Women’s Month after President Cory Aquino signed Proclamation No. 288 on March 17, 1988, emphasizing the role of Filipino women throughout history.
“This is not just a simple activity — it is a symbol of action. Every step we take is accompanied by a stand. Every participant carries a message — that we will not remain silent, that we care, and that we are ready to be part of change,” Gancayco added.
Misogyny refers to hatred, contempt or ingrained prejudice against women, often functioning to maintain patriarchal social roles and a lower social status for women. It manifests through sexism, belittling, harassment, and violence, frequently targeting those who challenge traditional gender norms.
The Supreme Court has taken a strong stance against misogyny, particularly within the legal profession.
In June 2023, it unanimously disbarred lawyer Lorenzo “Larry” Gadon for profane and sexist remarks against journalist Raissa Robles.
“There is no room in this noble profession for misogyny and sexism. The court will never tolerate abuse, in whatever form, especially when perpetrated by an officer of the court,” the Supreme Court said in its decision.
UP President Angelo Jimenez stressed that the sunflower is fast becoming UP’s second symbol, after the Oblation.
“Both bend toward the light,” Jimenez said, noting that just as sunflowers require full sunlight to grow, students should treat every experience inside the university as essential to their personal development.
Women’s empowerment was also embodied in the giant sunflower lanterns carried by participants around the Academic Oval.
Sunflower pins were worn by women in Kansas as they campaigned for the right to vote in 1867. Although the Kansas referendum failed, yellow remained a defining color of the suffrage movement throughout the 20th century.
In the Philippines, April 30, 1937 marked the first time Filipino women exercised their right to vote, after an overwhelming 447,725 women supported suffrage in a plebiscite held under Commonwealth Act No. 34.
“Just like sunflowers that always turn toward the light, women in our communities stand tall, resilient and full of warmth — guiding the next generation toward a better tomorrow,” said Atty. Vien Tiempo Mendez.
The event also paid tribute to UP’s female athletes, with participants representing badminton, basketball, beach volleyball, chess, football, and swimming, alongside Filipiniana-clad groups, the varsity pep squad and drummers.
Since 1938, UP women’s teams have won championships across multiple sports: 22 titles in swimming, 12 in judo, 10 in badminton, eight in volleyball, seven in basketball, six in table tennis, five in fencing, four in softball, two each in chess and taekwondo kyorugi, and one each in football and taekwondo poomsae.
“This event is more than just a gathering or a simple activity. It is a symbol of unity, empowerment and support for women who nurture, protect and motivate our children every single day. Women play a vital role in shaping the hopes and dreams of the young,” Mendez said.
The Sunflower Parade aims to remind the world that women and children have rights that must be protected, and to affirm that Filipino women are not alone in their struggle.
To defend women’s rights is to confront misogyny in all its forms, demand accountability from those who perpetuate it, and challenge the social structures that keep women vulnerable, silenced and exploited.
The event was led by UP-based women’s groups, including UP Delta Lambda Sigma Sorority, UP Portia Sorority, UP Women in Law, and the Women Lawyers Circle, along with UP Concert Chorus and their respective alumni associations, the Philippine Association of University Women (PAUW) – UP Chapter, IBP Quezon City, Kontra GaPi, the Maritime Law Association of the Philippines, and the Celebrity Club.
The event was founded by Atty. Gancayco, Atty. Mendez and the author.
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“Peyups” is the moniker of the University of the Philippines.
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Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the Seafarers’ Division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan Law Offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez.com, or call 0908-8665786./WDJ