The lyrics of the song were inspired by the principles and provisions of the CEDAW, the first international treaty that comprehensively addresses women’s rights in the civil, political, economic, social, cultural and family life.

The grand prize winning entry embodies the story of decades of advocacy for parity of women to men in all aspects of life and end to all forms of violence against women as well as gender balance in the exercise of duties and responsibilities in the family, in business, governance and nation-building.

The grand prize was presented during the CEDAW anniversary celebration at the Philippine Senate, which affirms all international treaties entered into by the Philippine Government.  The winning song bested twenty-nine entries from all over the country.  The finalists in the nationwide search for CEDAW official hymn include the entries Babaeng Malaya (Liberated Women) by Mr. Danilo F. Fabella, Himig ko’y Pakinggan (Listen to my music) by Mr. Athley B. Glori, Free by Ms. Jerolen V. Malonzo and Tama na, Tigilan na (Enough is enough!) by Mr. Grant Domic R. Zurbito.

Photo shows the songwriting winners, Ms. Abad-Sarmiento, Ms. Singson and Ms. Lectura, receiving their grand prize at the awarding ceremonies held at the Philippine Senate.  Flanking them are, from left: Ms. Myrna Yao, chairperson of NCRFW; former Ambassador Rosario Gonzales Manalo; and International Labor Organization of East-South East Asia Sub-regional Director Linda Wirth.

Source: WINNER-Philippines