BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Agriculture-Cordillera Administrative Region (DA-CAR) officially launched the National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC) during its flag-raising ceremony on March 3, 2025. This annual observance aims to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment through various initiatives and activities.
This year marks the third installment of the NWMC campaign banner, “WE for Gender Equality and an Inclusive Society,” which underscores the continuous efforts needed to build compassionate and unified networks that advocate for gender equality. The campaign also carries the sub-theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” emphasizing the crucial role of women in various sectors and their contribution to a progressive nation.
During the ceremony, DA-CAR division chiefs delivered messages of support for gender and development (GAD) initiatives. Planning and Monitoring Evaluation Division Chief Susan Balanza highlighted the importance of incorporating three key components when preparing the GAD plan: client-based, organizational-based, and attribution. She emphasized the use of the Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG) tool to integrate GAD elements in the department’s planning and development phases to ensure that programs effectively address gender-related concerns.
“We recognize the support of men because we need their involvement to be stronger,” Balanza noted, acknowledging the importance of collective efforts in promoting gender equality.
Meanwhile, Integrated Laboratories Division Chief Dr. Ofelia Ducayag creatively defined WOMEN as Worker, Open, Mindful, Enterprising, and Nurturing, underscoring the multifaceted roles of women in society.
DA-CAR Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations, Arlene Sagayo, expressed her sincere hope that every woman finds happiness and fulfillment in their endeavors. She encouraged women to believe in themselves, stay strong, and pursue their dreams with determination and confidence. She emphasized the value of hard work, resilience, and maintaining a positive attitude despite challenges. Additionally, she reminded women to be kind, support one another, and embrace opportunities for growth. Above all, she urged them to keep smiling, stay motivated, and continue striving for greatness.
In line with the celebration, DA-CAR has lined up various activities throughout March, including a Learning Series on Financial Literacy, Customer Service, and Drug-Free Workplace; MOVE Capability Building; Work-Life Balance Seminar; Basic Self-Defense Training; a Children’s Educational Guided Tour on Livestock and Animal Husbandry; a Gender Fair Language Seminar; and Gender Sensitivity and HGDG Training. These activities aim to empower women and raise awareness on gender-related issues within the agriculture sector.
Additionally, a Kadiwa ng Pangulo was launched immediately after the flag ceremony, running until March 7, 2025. The initiative seeks to recognize and empower women in agriculture by showcasing the products of various women-led farmer cooperatives and associations (FCAs), including fresh fruits, vegetables, dry goods, fish, and ornamental plants.
The National Women’s Month Celebration at DA-CAR serves as a significant platform to highlight the indispensable role of women in agriculture and other sectors, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and gender-responsive society. By Alyssa Dawn Alalag
