Signature campaign demands swift passage of Lakambini Act

The bill seeks to bring Filipina heroes and IPs into school curricula.

A signature campaign is pushing the proposed Lakambini Act of 2026, which seeks to promote historical awareness and recognize the role of women in nation-building.

In a Sept. 2 Facebook post, the page Lakambini, dedicated to the 2025 film “Lakambini: Gregoria de Jesus,” shared a petition link and QR code calling on supporters to sign the campaign.

“A nation cannot tell its full story if half of its heroes are left out,” the post said. “The Lakambini Bill calls for the study of Filipina heroes in schools, not simply to remember their names, but to ensure the next generation learns about the courage, sacrifices, and contributions of the women who helped shape our nation.”

“Their stories deserve a place in our classrooms. Help make it happen,” it added.

The bill, authored by Sen. Risa Hontiveros and filed on May 6, is currently pending in committee.

It still has a way to go before becoming law: the measure must pass both the Senate and House of Representatives, with both chambers approving identical versions before it can be sent to the President for signing.

If passed, the measure would require public and private schools at all levels to teach the lives, historical roles and contributions of Filipino women heroes.

The Department of Education would develop age-appropriate materials for basic education, while the Commission on Higher Education would create corresponding academic modules for colleges and universities.

The bill also calls for the inclusion of women from local, indigenous, grassroots and marginalized communities, with support from cultural and academic institutions such as the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.

The campaign comes alongside renewed attention to “Lakambini: Gregoria de Jesus,” which tells the story of Gregoria “Oriang” de Jesus. Produced by Ellen Ongkeko-Marfil of Pelikulove, the film was more than a decade in the making and marked Oriang’s 150th birth anniversary in 2025.

Directed by Arjanmar H. Rebeta, with Jeffrey Jeturian directing portions shot in 2015, the film starred Lovi Poe, Paulo Avelino, Rocco Nacino, Gina Pareño and Elora Españo. It had a nationwide theatrical run in late 2025.

The film recently picked up three nominations at the 49th Gawad Urian Awards: Best Documentary, plus Best Supporting Actress nods for Pareño and Españo.

The petition has since surpassed its original goal of 200 signatures. It now has over 400 verified signatures and has raised its target to 500.