“WE for Gender Equality & Inclusive Society,” this is the battle cry of officials and personnel of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 6 as well as the entire country in celebrating the National Women’s Month this March.

A sea of purple graced the DENR 6 Courtyard during the launching activity on March 4, 2024 led by the Regional Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System (RGFPS).

In his opening remarks, Dr. Ernest C. Federiso, Vice Chairperson, Committee on Planning and Research Committee of RGFPS as well as Chief of the Administrative Division emphasized the need to completely eradicate sexual harassment in the workplace, fostering safe spaces for all genders, and women empowerment.

“Bisan ano pa nga layi ang nagaprotekta sa mga babayi, kung ang babayi mismo indi mag invoke sang iya nga right, wala ina sing pulos. Dapat diri sa DENR Region 6, ang mga babayi magtindog, makigbato, kag ipakigbato ang ila kinamatarong,” Dr. Federiso said.

On behalf of RGFPS Chairperson and Enforcement Division Chief For. June Melissa C. Garol, Atty. Cheryl Rose V. Librero, RGFPS Vice Chairperson expressed gratitude to the empowered women of the past and quoted Miss Universe Philippines Iloilo 2024 Alexie Brooks, saying “Abanse, Babayi!”.

“This is a way of paying homage or honour to our forbears. They were the ones who fought for us to have what he have right now…I want you all to recognize and to realize that without this, we will not be having this equality nga gina-enjoy ta right now. The celebration of the Women’s Month is still a relevant event,” she said.

DENR 6 top officials, Assistant Regional Directors Andres T. Untal for Management Services and Raul L. Lorilla for Technical Services declared their all out support to the celebration on behalf of Regional Executive Director Livino B. Duran. They also encouraged everyone to contribute to the different initiatives that aim to empower women not only in the workplace but also in the communities.

“As we embark on the global celebration of Women’s Month, let us recognize the pivotal role that both women and men play in the journey towards gender equality and empowerment. Thus, as we honour the extraordinary achievements and contributions of women throughout history, let us also acknowledge and appreciate the male allies who have stood alongside them as advocates, supporters, and partners…Together, let us celebrate the harmonious collaboration between men and women in shaping a world where gender does not limit one’s potential but instead, propels individuals to greatness.,” ARD Untal expressed.

“Women have a great role in the progress of the society. The celebration today aspires to give honour to women all throughout the world. Recognizing their participation and roles to the various developments halin sa panimalay niya, asta sa community, asta sa nation-building. So the great message for us all is, we will love all women,” ARD Lorilla said.

Aside from the launching activity, key officials also unveiled “Women Beyond Lenses”, a photo competition and exhibit featuring the different empowered women whose work have and continuous to contribute to the overall success of endeavours in DENR 6 and the community as well.

Different activities in relation to the National Women’s Month are also set for the whole month of March not only in the regional office but in the different Provincial and Community Environment and Natural Resources Offices (PENROs and CENROs) around Western Visayas as well.

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Parent Category: News & Events
Category: Photo Releases
Published: 11 March 2024