The 2025 Regional Women’s Month celebration in Region IV (CALABARZON) culminated in a powerful forum at the Ynares Event Center, Antipolo City, on March 20th, igniting a renewed commitment to gender equality and an inclusive society. Under the theme ‘WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society’ and the sub-theme ‘Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,’ the event served as a platform for insightful discussions and strategic planning for the years ahead.
The celebration consisted of a welcome message from RD Carmel Mata-bang, Regional GAD Council Chairperson, inspirational messages from Hon. Gov. Nina Ricci Ynares, Rizal Province; and President Dr. Nancy Pascual, URS, and the keynote message from Dr. Amaryllis Torres, professor Emeritus, UP College of Social Work and Community Development (UP-CSWCD). The forum was further divided into three sessions called Advancing Gender Equality and Women Empowerment, Empowering Women through Social Solidarity Economy in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals, and Volunteerism on Gender Equality and Women Empowerment, which were discussed by Ms. Nharleen Millar, OIC-Executive Director, Philippine Commission on Women (PCW); Dr. Benjamin Quiñones, Chairperson, Asian Solidarity Economy Council; and Ms. Fely Baday, Supervising Volunteer Officer and Chairperson of Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA). The event was also made light with performances from Hiyas ng Rizal dance troupe and the UCCA singers.
Other highlights of the event are the launching of the CALABARZON Gender and Development Agenda 2024-2030, and the turnover ceremony for the 2026 Regional Women’s Month host, which is the Cavite State University.
The forum ended with the closing remarks from Ms. Josephine Parilla, RGADC Co-chairperson.
The R4 Women’s Month forum served as a crucial step forward in the region’s journey towards a truly gender-equal and inclusive society. With the newly launched GAD Agenda and the commitment of stakeholders, the momentum generated promises a brighter future for women in CALABARZON and the nation.
