Mutya to strictly observe Women’s Code

The Davao City Women's code will be strictly observed during Mutya ng Dabaw 2018, an organizer said.

Dan Salvaña Jr., organizer of Mutya ng Dabaw 2018, assured that they have coordinated with Lorna Mandin, the head of Integrated Gender and Development Division, to brief handlers and organizers about the women's code.

"We asked ma'am Lorna Mandin, from IGDD, to be part of the screening process, and once we have chosen official candidates, she will also join the orientation this February 27, to educate the handlers and organizers so that no mistakes will be committed on that aspect," Salvaña said.

He added that during the pageant they will not have swimsuit category, same as the previous years due to the observance of the code.

The Women Development Code of Davao City or City Ordinance No. 5004 was passed in 1997 and is a landmark in the country’s local legislation. The code seeks to design, adopt, and implement gender responsive policies for the protection and promotion of women’s rights and welfare.

This year's theme will be modern Dabawenya and women empowerment.

He said they will show what men can do, women can do too and this will be manifested in their video presentations.

March is also declared as the Women's Month.