Upholding Equality

Equality stems from the fact that we are all created and born equal. We brought nothing in this world and will bring nothing after life here on earth. The situation only varies during lifetime. It is when one maneuvers the present phenomenon to his or her own advantage but at the expense of another. In a place where all of the same class are governed by the same set of rules, equality is subverted when one abuses his or her authority over another or exercises his or her rights to the prejudice of another. It also happens when one amasses wealth for selfish gain, thereby undermining the equal chance for progress and prosperity. The rich becomes richer and the poor becomes poorer.

The term equality, however, recognizes our distinct characteristics as individuals. It upholds our diverse cultures and backgrounds. It admits the fact that the environment may contribute to the uniqueness of our existence. Science says that man and woman are uniquely created physically. Orientations at home and the community we live in also make our tastes, activities, and preferences vary. Those who live in far flung areas or distant islands and forests may affect their direct access to modern technologies. These factors that amplify heterogeneity should not however deprive anyone from the basic requirements of justice and fairness. Equal rights, opportunities, and protection of the law shall always be accorded to citizens of a country.

In the Philippines, there are efforts of the government to level the playing field of every Filipino. Section 14, Article 2 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution provides that the State recognizes the role of women in nation-building, and shall ensure the fundamental equality before the law of women and men. Article 3, Chapter 1 of the Labor Code of the Philippines also states that the State shall afford protection to labor, promote full employment, ensure equal work opportunities regardless of sex, race or creed and regulate the relations between workers and employers. The Salary Standardization Law of 2019 also declares the policy of the State which is to provide all government personnel a just and equitable compensation in accordance with the principle of equal pay for work of equal value. These are just among the numerous legislations that uphold equality as a core value in the country.

In the light of National Women’s Month Celebration, it is good to take this opportunity to ensure that women around us are not discriminated. Let us exert every effort to guarantee the welfare of women in our society and see to it that any sort of harassment against them shall be dealt with accordingly.
On one hand, if we are in public service, there should be equality of treatment to all our clientele in the performance of duty, giving of awards, grant of licenses or permits, and distribution of resources to beneficiaries of programs and projects. It is best achieve if justice is observed in the interpretation, implementation, and legislation of laws. ​(NAS, CRFV)