BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Agriculture–Cordillera (DA-CAR) officially concluded its month-long Women’s Month celebration during the Flag Ceremony on March 31, 2025, at the DA-CAR Regional Office in Guisad, Baguio City.
Aida Pagtan, 1st Alternate Gender and Development Focal Person, opened the program by recapping the various activities held in celebration of Women’s Month. These included a Learning Series on Financial Literacy, Customer Service, and Drug-Free Workplace; two batches of Work-Life Balance sessions; a Basic Self-Defense Seminar; a Children’s Educational Guided Tour on Livestock and Animal Husbandry; a Write Shop on Integrating a Gender Lens into Activity Proposals; and Men Opposed to VAW Everywhere (MOVE) Organization of the RAFC-AFC and Orientation on the laws protecting women. She highlighted that these events were attended by both men and women, reinforcing the message that gender equality and empowerment are collective responsibilities.
A key highlight of the program was the awarding ceremony, where individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions. Wilma Alvester was honored with a plaque of recognition for being the 2024 Regional Outstanding Rural Woman. She was also celebrated for securing 3rd place in the National Outstanding Rural Women Awards held on March 28 in Quezon City.
The DA-CAR Search for Outstanding Rural Women (SORW) Committee, led by Ms. Gladys Aligo, was also recognized for its dedicated service and significant contributions in facilitating the regional outstanding rural women nominees, who have consistently placed within the Top 7 at the national level. Additionally, Rhey-an Gallamoy of the Tabuk-Office of the City Agricultural Services was also recognized for her commitment and invaluable assistance in preparing the necessary documents for the successful implementation of DA’s Search for Outstanding Rural Women at the regional level.
Another notable award was given to the Field Operations Division–High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) for securing Rank No. 1 in HVCDP Outstanding Performance for FY2024 nationwide, recognizing their commendable efforts and dedication to agricultural development.
Following the awarding, Ms. Alvester delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing her gratitude to the Department of Agriculture and everyone who supported her throughout her journey to receiving the prestigious awards.
The culmination program served as a testament to DA-CAR’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment, recognizing the invaluable contributions of women in agriculture and beyond. By Alyssa Dawn Alalag
