Gabriela Breaks:

Gabriela Breaks: For over two decades, the Gabriela Women’s Party held an unshakable presence in the Philippine House of Representatives, championing the rights of women, workers, and the marginalized.

While the electoral setback dealt a heavy blow to its constituents and supporters, Gabriela remains defiant. Leaders of the party have made it clear: their struggle is far from over.

The Unprecedented Loss

Gabriela’s absence in the incoming 20th Congress has left many stunned. Since first earning a seat in 2004, the party-list group became synonymous with fiery speeches, staunch opposition to anti-poor policies, and bold legislative proposals that centered women’s rights, social justice, and national sovereignty.

This year, however, their campaign was met with fierce challenges—chief among them being a significant reduction in votes and what the group describes as a “disenfranchisement” of marginalized sectors. Gabriela leaders have pointed to systemic obstacles, including disinformation campaigns, militarization in rural areas, and limited media access, as major contributors to the loss.

Arlene Brosas, Gabriela’s most recent representative. “What we’re witnessing is not just a political defeat—it’s the silencing of a movement that has represented millions of women and poor Filipinos.”

A Legacy of Advocacy

Gabriela’s legislative track record over the years speaks for itself. From championing the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children Act to pushing for the Magna Carta for Women and fighting against labor contractualization, the group has consistently positioned itself as a voice for those often overlooked by mainstream politics.

They have also been vocal critics of U.S. military presence in the Philippines, foreign intervention in domestic policy, and neoliberal economic models that widen inequality.

Beyond Congress, Gabriela’s influence has been felt on the streets—organizing women’s marches, supporting survivors of abuse, and challenging patriarchal systems in both politics and culture.

Accusations of Red-Tagging

Another factor believed to have affected Gabriela’s election performance is the continued red-tagging of progressive organizations. The practice of labeling individuals or groups as communists or terrorists—without evidence—has long plagued activist circles in the Philippines.

Gabriela was no exception. The group has faced baseless accusations of being a front for insurgent groups, allegations they have vehemently denied for years.

“These labels are not just false—they’re dangerous,” said Brosas. “They endanger the lives of our members and communities. And worst of all, they are being weaponized to discredit legitimate dissent.”

The Call for Recount and Accountability

In the wake of the results, Gabriela has not remained silent. The party is calling for an independent investigation into the conduct of the elections, citing reports of vote suppression and inconsistencies in the party-list system’s implementation.

Legal avenues are reportedly being pursued to challenge the outcome and seek a recount in certain regions where voting patterns appeared irregular.

“We will exhaust all legal means to ensure the voice of the marginalized is not erased,” a Gabriela statement read.

More Than Just a Seat

Despite losing its formal place in Congress, Gabriela continues to operate as a mass organization with a national grassroots network. The party remains deeply embedded in urban poor communities, rural farming areas, and labor sectors.

In recent days, the group has organized mobilizations across Metro Manila, urging the public to remain vigilant and continue fighting for pro-people legislation. Allies in the academe, civil society, and labor groups have also expressed solidarity.

“Gabriela may have lost a seat, but it has not lost its soul,” said activist and women’s rights advocate Joms Salvador.

A Broader Political Shift?

The failure of several progressive party-list groups to win seats in 2025 may also reflect a broader political trend in the Philippines—a consolidation of power among traditional elites and a rollback of gains made by left-leaning organizations.

Observers note that the environment for political dissent has become increasingly hostile, with laws like the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 still looming over activist groups.

Yet, despite the grim backdrop, Gabriela’s loss has galvanized support in unexpected ways. On social media, hashtags like #StandWithGabriela and #DefendProgressives trended in the days following the election, showing that public support for the group remains strong, especially among the youth.

The Road Ahead

Gabriela’s leaders have made it clear that they are not backing down. Plans are already underway to strengthen organizing efforts, expand political education programs, and train a new generation of grassroots leaders.

“We are returning to the communities that gave birth to this movement,” said Brosas. “We will not retreat.

As the new Congress convenes without Gabriela for the first time in over two decades, the absence will be felt. But the values and advocacy that the party represents are not so easily erased.

Whether in the streets, in classrooms, or in the hearts of working-class women, Gabriela’s voice continues to echo—a reminder that real change doesn’t start or end in the legislature. It lives in the people who dare to fight.

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