Manila, Philippines -  (25 October 2009) A serious plenary discussion on a conference outcome document turned into joyful pass-the-hat session in the Marian Theatre of Miriam College, making the convener Patricia Licuanan beam and express, "This is better than a statement."

by Nina Somera, Isis International

Manila, Philippines - (23 October 2009) "It's very real. It's very now."

This was how Ofa Guttenbeil Likiliki described the persistent violations against women's human rights in her country, Tonga. In September 2009, Tongan Prime Minister Dr. Feleti Sevele announced his cabinet's decision not to ratify the Convention of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

by Nina Somera, Isis International

Manila, Philippines (23 October 2009) - At the opening of the Asia Pacific NGO Forum on Beijing + 15 at Miriam College, feminists who have lobbied hard at the United Nations (UN) and beyond through the years piece together their memories of struggles and hopes for the future.

by Nina Somera, Isis International

Manila - (22 October 2009) The Asia Pacific NGO Forum on Beijing + 15 opened today here at Miriam College in the Philippines, with no less than Noeleen Heyzer, United Nations Undersecretary General and UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific Executive Secretary gracing the process.