ILOILO — The Iloilo Provincial Government on Monday launched its 2026 National Women’s Month celebration, unveiling a packed, month-long lineup of programs focused on health services, livelihood support, employment opportunities, legal assistance, and women’s empowerment under the campaign banner “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society.”
The celebration, which runs from March 2 to 31, opened by the Capitol’s Gender and Development (GAD) Unit, marking the province’s commitment to strengthening women’s leadership and participation in building a progressive Iloilo.
Anchored on the sub-theme “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”, the initiative calls on women to embody the courage and wisdom of the country’s pre-colonial female leaders.
Mutya sang Barangay Kapitolyo 2025 Rose Mariel R. Sansing of Barotac Viejo District Hospital underscored the message behind this year’s theme.
“Today, we are reminded that leadership has always been in the hands and hearts of women. Here at the Iloilo Provincial Government, we have prepared a meaningful lineup of activities to celebrate, empower, and uplift women throughout March,” Sansing said.
Vice Gov.Nathalie Ann Debuque said the celebration highlights the vital role of women as partners in the province’s development.
“This month we are celebrating the beauty and the resilience of women. Gani sa sini nga bulan ikabuhi guid naton ang pagtaha kag ang aton nga pagpalangga sa mga kababaihan nga aton mga partners sa pagtib-ong sa kauswagan sa probinsya sang Iloilo,” Debuque said.
Among the major activities is Tiendas Ilonggas (March 2–31), which showcases micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and agricultural products of local women entrepreneurs, farmers, and fisherfolk at the Capitol grounds.
Free legal assistance will be provided through “Alalayi si Babayi” from March 2 to 6 at the Capitol Lobby.
Women employees will also benefit from “Serbisyo Juana-We Pamper” sessions at the Capitol’s 6th Floor during the same dates.
Health-centered initiatives include “Healthy HER” cancer screening and health education sessions every March 6, 13, 20, and 27, and “LAB U WOMEN” laboratory examinations for Capitol employees on March 13, 20, and 27.
On March 12, the Provincial PESO will stage the Bida Ilongga Job Fair at Casa Real de Iloilo to connect jobseekers directly with employers.
Other activities include dish gardening, a Bangus deboning session, the Women & Sustainable Communities Forum, self-defense training dubbed “SHE DEFENDS: Confidence and Self-Defense” in partnership with the Iloilo Police Provincial Office, and the culminating “ISTORYA TA!” Forum highlighting the achievements and challenges of women leaders in entrepreneurship, circular economy, and governance.
The Capitol will also mount a Purple Photo Booth at the lobby throughout March, encouraging participation in the advocacy campaign using the hashtag #PurpleCapitol. Offices and district hospitals are urged to join the “Purple Your Office and Hospitals” drive, decorating workspaces with recycled, upcycled, or indigenous materials.
Purple Fridays will be observed weekly, with employees wearing purple attire as a symbol of justice, dignity, and loyalty to gender equality. A daily Wellness Minute meditation will also be broadcast over the Capitol intercom to promote mental and emotional well-being.
“As Mutya sang Barangay Kapitolyo 2025, I invite everyone — leaders, employees, and partners — to actively participate in these activities. Let us not only celebrate women this month, but also strengthen our shared responsibility in building a gender-equal and inclusive society. May we lead like the babaylans — brave, wise, and compassionate. May we wear purple with pride. And may we stand united in saying: WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society!” Sansing added.
March is observed nationwide as National Women’s Month under Proclamation No. 227, recognizing women’s invaluable contributions to nation-building and advancing gender equality./PN
