The Cagayan Valley Regional Development Council (RDC2) through the Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC), in collaboration with its member-institutions, conducted the Regional Kick-Off Activity for the 2026 National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC) with the banner, “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society” on March 2, 2026 at the Santiago Sports Arena, Santiago City.
Under the sub-theme “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas,” Isabela State University (ISU) co-led the event aimed to honor and celebrate the achievements of women leaders in the region and facilitate the transfer of gender mainstreaming practices that can be replicated in institutions and organizations within Cagayan Valley.
Divided into two sessions, the activity brought together government agencies, State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), and women’s organizations to pool the region’s collective wisdom on what works in advancing women’s empowerment while creating visibility and recognition for women. The activity also served as a strategic intervention that leveraged celebration to inspire people, generate commitment and harness proven practices to enable effective action.
In his solidarity message, Dr. Artemio A. Martin, Jr. (Cluster Executive Officer, Echague Campus) representing Dr. Boyet L. Batang (University President), affirmed ISU’s belief in excellence and inclusivity and declared its solidarity to every woman who continues to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and pursue opportunities without fear or limitation.
He further assured the University’s unwavering commitment to gender-responsive policies, inclusive education, researches that address gender issues, and extension programs that empower women at the grassroots level.
“Together, let us build a future where advancement has no gender – only excellence, integrity, and shared progress. Know that we see you, we value you, and we stand with you,” Dr. Martin added.
Highlights of the program included the Ceremonial Purple Ribbon Pinning along with the signing of a Pledge of Commitment among the participants, that signified the official opening of the NWMC 2026.
In addition, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) and the RGADC also formalized its partnership through the Ceremonial Signing of a Partnership Agreement that institutionalizes the coordination between the National Gender Machinery with the Regional GAD structure to ensure that gender equality and women’s empowerment initiatives are effectively implemented at the regional and local levels.
The formalized partnership also shows the shared commitment of both parties to strengthen gender mainstreaming mechanisms across government agencies, Local Government Units (LGUs), SUCs, and regional line agencies.
Central to the partnership is the implementation of the PCW Local GAD Resource Program which focuses on partnership and convergence, replication of good practices, and provision of direct technical assistance.
Moreover, the event featured several learning sessions including the following topics:
- Women Leading Change: Contributions and Achievements in Nation Building (Speaker: Dr. Rose Mary G. Aquino – Regional Executive Director, DA RFO 02)
- Women in Education and Social Development
(Speaker: Dr. Agnes S. Reyes – Executive Director and Provost, PNU-NL)
- Women in Entrepreneurship and Economic Development
(Speaker: Ms. Susan T. Pagulayan – Entrepreneur and Owner, Susan’s Bakeshop)
- Women in Governance and Public Service
(Speaker: Ms. Maria Cristine C. Ordonez – GAD Focal and Asst. City Cooperative Officer, Cauayan City)
- Young Women Leaders
(Speaker: Atty. Divina Joy V. Gonzales – Local Youth Development Officer, Cauayan City)
The following best practices in regional gender mainstreaming were also presented:
- Gender-Responsive Governance Initiative
- Violence Against Women Prevention and Support
- Women’s Health and Wellness Program
- Education and Capacity Building Excellence
- Women-Led Community Development Project
In her closing remarks, Dr. Virginia G. Bilgera (Chairperson, RGADC and Regional Director, DOST 02) underscored that the rationale of the gathering serves as a reminder that Women’s Month goes beyond mere compliance with Proclamation No. 224. She stressed that it is a strategic intervention and a platform that validates women’s often unseen contributions, a space that amplifies voices deserving to be heard, and a mechanism that ensures gender equality is not treated as a seasonal observance but is firmly embedded as an institutional commitment.
“We began today celebrating women’s advancement. We end today advancing women’s leadership. Together, let us ensure that the story of Cagayan Valley is a story where every woman and girl is empowered to learn, to lead, to decide, and to thrive,” Dr. Bilgera said.
As the Regional Kick-Off Activity concluded with a recognition and appreciation for its partners and attendees, participants are expected to translate their commitments into actions within their respective institutions and communities.
