” This year’s celebration of Women’s Month capitalizes the imperative role of the women in nation building and pays tribute to the strong and resilient “Juanas” who brought inspiring changes here in the country and across the globe, the thought-content of the welcome message delivered by Paisal O. Abutazil, Region IX Director of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) during the culmination program attended by the regional management employees.

 

 

‘”Evidently, he added, that not only in the national where women were recognized from their contribution but even in the regional office where a number of employed women are prevalent. This somehow shows the empowerment of the women in the enjoyment of their equal rights and the recognition of the state to the crucial roles of women as the theme says, ” Juana, ang tatag mo ay tatag natin sa pagbangon at pagsulong”.

 

During the program, series of topics enlightened the participants on the provision of RA 9262 (Violence Against Women and Children), RA 9208 (Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2008) and RA 8504 (Philippine AIDS Prevention and Control Act of 1998) which were shared by LGCCD Chief Emma T. Albarico, LGOO IV Dishie R. Lauron and Personnel Section Chief Eva N. Sabanal, respectively.

Participants also gained insights through the given video presentation of the trafficking in the Philippines as well as the seriousness of the HIV-AIDS issues in the country.

 

Meanwhile, Assistant Regional Director Pedro G. Cuevas Jr. highlighted the origin why Women’s Month has been celebrated nationwide.

 

He informed that such observance was a result of the organizing activities of women in the early 20th Century. Between 1909 and 1911, working women in the United States participated in organizing strike activities of the National Women’s Trade Union League and other concerned groups. They were responding to the low wages, lack of protective legislation and the poor working conditions to which women workers were subjected during that time.

 

“Nowadays, there has been empowerment on the role of women in the nation building and their over-all contributions to progress. Hence, women’s resiliency, strength and contributions to progress deserves greater recognition and appreciation,” ARD Cuevas said in closing.