Angel Locsin celebrates b-day with Gabriela

“Gabriela" - the female hero of GMA 7’s Asian Treasures celebrated her birthday with her namesake Gabriela or the General Assembly Binding Women for Reforms, Integrity, Equality, Leadership and Action – a party-list organization of women groups running in the May 14 elections. Actress Angel Locsin’s video endorsement of Gabriela was also launched via YouTube on Sunday. A statement from the party-list group said Locsin held a birthday party with Gabriela because he belived in its support to women who fight for their rights. Locsin celebrated her 22nd birthday last April 23. Locsin's birthday guests included victims and survivors of domestic violence, rape, abuse in foreign land, and other forms of violence against women. In an earlier interview, Locsin said Gabriela is effective in helping women empower themselves. "Gusto kong makatulong sa mga kababaihan at sa mga kabataan para maibalik ang self-confidence nila. Yun talaga ang party-list na sinusuportahan ko." Gabriela Women's Party gave Locsin a video tribute and a plaque of appreciation while the young actress gave give gifts to her special guests. While accepting the Gabriela citation, Locsin said: "I believe that even artists should make a stand. I've learned that life is either black or white, it cannot be neutral." Expressing gratitude for Locsin's support, Gabriela Rep. Liza Maza said "the women of Gabriela Women's Party admire Angel's dedication to her craft as an actress and her enthusiasm for her cause as a woman." Maza adds: "She is a role model for young women for she can advance with grace and conviction her profession and cause. We are happy that a young woman of such status, strength and substance supports the cause of oppressed and marginalized women." In her video endorsement of the party-list group, Locsin said: "May Gabriela sa bawat isa sa atin. Nagmamahal, naghihirap, dinadahas, hinahangaan, ginigipit ngunit lumalaban. Gabriela ka, lumaban ka. Iboto ang Gabriela Women's Party." The campaign ad can be viewed at http://www.gabrielawomensparty.org/