Walking for Life, Marching for Justice With immense joy and unwavering resolve, we reflect on our recent participation in the Walk for Life held on February 23, just two days before the anniversary of the EDSA Revolution—a powerful demonstration of the vibrant energy and steadfast commitment of the lay faithful. This event stands as a clarion call, emphasizing the sanctity of life and the unassailable dignity of every human being. We are profoundly grateful for the opportunity to be part of this significant occasion, which demands our active engagement and relentless advocacy.

As we evaluate this impactful event, several key insights have emerged that we would like to share. One of the most encouraging aspects was the unmistakable increase in participants from our movement. This surge is a clear indication of our collective commitment to the cause of life and the values we uphold. The Walk for Life served as an invaluable platform for promoting the PYCW among Laiko and other organizations, showcasing our dedication to advocacy and community mobilization.

The route of the Walk for Life, beginning at the iconic Flower Clock of Luneta Park, is rich with symbolism. The Flower Clock, a symbol of the passage of time, reminds us that every moment is precious and that we must act now to protect the sanctity of life. As we gathered at this landmark, we were not merely assembling for a march; we were answering a profound call to honor every life, every heartbeat, and every dream that deserves to flourish.

From Luneta Park, we marched towards the historic Walled City of Intramuros, a fortress that has withstood the test of time. This journey through Intramuros symbolizes our commitment to safeguarding the values that define us as a community. Just as the walls of Intramuros have protected generations, we, too, stand as guardians of life, advocating for the vulnerable and marginalized. Our march on this storied path reminded us that the fight for dignity and justice is not just a contemporary struggle; it is rooted in a legacy of resilience and hope.

Upon reaching the Manila Cathedral, a sacred space that has long been a beacon of faith and hope, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of reverence and solidarity. The cathedral, with its towering spires reaching towards the heavens, symbolizes our aspirations for a world where life is cherished and protected. Inside, we paused for reflection and prayer, drawing strength from our shared mission and the belief that we are part of something greater than ourselves.

In preparation for the Walk, a formation session was conducted the night before the event, facilitated by an adult collaborator of our movement. This gathering was not merely a meeting; it was a rallying point, where we fortified our spirits and deepened our understanding of the significance of the Walk for Life. The formation instilled a sense of urgency and purpose, igniting our passion for the cause and preparing us to take our stand.

Participants rose at 2 AM, willingly making sacrifices to partake in this critical occasion. Their commitment was palpable, a testament to their determination to fight for life and justice. The presence of our national chaplain was particularly inspiring, providing spiritual guidance and encouragement that resonated deeply with all attendees. His words served as a battle cry, reminding us of the profound impact we can have when we stand united for our cause.

Our leaders exhibited remarkable organizational skills, effectively navigating various responsibilities that included meal preparation, budgeting, and task delegation. The collaborative spirit displayed during the event was nothing short of invigorating. It not only facilitated a seamless execution of the day’s activities but also forged an unbreakable bond among participants. This event provided a vital opportunity to engage new attendees, preparing them for larger initiatives in the future. Witnessing the participation of 25 new attendees was particularly uplifting, and we commend the robust support system provided by YCW, which included our dedicated collaborators, chaplains, and representatives from the Asia-Pacific region (ASPAC). Their motivation and encouragement were instrumental in reinforcing our commitment to the cause. The real-life scenarios we encountered during the Walk tested and strengthened our leadership capabilities, fortifying our resolve to fight for justice and dignity.

Looking ahead, deepening the connection between our campaigns and the Walk for Life is essential. We aspire to amplify our voice in future events and collaborate more closely with Laiko during the preparation stages. Our presence at the Walk for Life is not merely symbolic; it is a declaration of our intent to make a meaningful impact and actively contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding life issues. This event presents a unique opportunity to communicate the significance of our advocacy to the Laiko community, and we must refine our perspectives before the Walk for Life while expanding our campaign focus. Key issues that warrant our attention include ending contractualization, ensuring safe workplaces for women, and advocating for climate justice, fair wages, and social protection.

As we conclude our reflections, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who participated in and supported this important event. We eagerly anticipate marching alongside you and Mother Mary next year, as well as in every step we take together as a synodal Church. The Walk for Life is more than just a march; it is a bold stand for our shared values and a commitment to fostering a culture that honors every life. Together, we will continue to advocate for a world where the dignity of all is upheld and cherished. This participation has become a regular annual movement for YCW, and we look forward to the continued growth and impact of our collective efforts in the years to come. Let us march forward with courage and conviction, ready to confront the challenges ahead and champion the cause of life and justice.

Writers: Arnel J. Adano and Christine Angel Galicano