Ilocano Men Wear High Heels For Women’s Month

A parade of men in high heels will bring twist and fun on the celebration of International Women’s Month this March to campaign for gender sensitivity and women empowerment in the Province of Ilocos Norte.

Marking the beginning of the celebration on March 2, the “Taray Sapatos de Takong,” a parade of Provincial Capitol male employees wearing high heels, will commence at 6:00 a.m., in front of the Puregold Laoag, straight through the J.P. Rizal Street and ending in front of the Provincial Capitol.

On March 18, the main highlight of the celebration will be the mardi gras-themed “Kinni–kinni” (swaying hips) Parade which will be joined by the different local government units.

“To bring a twist in our celebration, our muses for this year’s “Kinni-kinni” Parade will be ‘straight’ men who are 25 years old and above. Participants are expected to wear at least two inches high heels except for wedge,” Ms. Janet London, Provincial Population Program Officer II, explained.

According to Ms. London, the celebration will underscore the importance of gender sensitivity along with the promotion of women’s rights and welfare.

“Our focus this year is gender sensitivity. We aim to sensitize men. At least if men wear heels, they will understand the plight of women every time they wear these types of footwear. Aside from that, they will be aware of the responsibilities of women, including our domestic role.”

“For a change, men will experience the struggle and excitement in wearing heels,” she continued.

The contested categories for the “Kinni–kinni” Parade will be the “Best Kinni–kinni Group,” the “Kinni–kinni Queen,” and the “Best Buntis.”—Blessing Angel V. Agliam, PGIN–CMO