WOMEN empowering WOMEN
(PART 2)
AS WE celebrate National Women’s Month in March, here are inspiring messages from women leaders of different industries and sectors.
OUR community thrives because of the diverse contributions of women from all walks of life. Whether they are teachers, businesswomen, caregivers, artists, politicians, or homemakers, each woman adds a unique color to our collective canvas. Let us celebrate this diversity and recognize the strength that lies in our differences.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, we remember the indomitable spirit that defines our remarkable Filipino women. The stories, struggles, and triumphs weave a tapestry of strength and hope — a testament to the power of unity.
Today, I want to remind on the importance of women empowerment — a cause at the heart of our shared journey toward a more equitable society. Our journey is ongoing. We have gone far but we are still far. Nonetheless, I am proud and thankful for the remarkable steps we have all taken and the success we have all achieved. Let us continue to stand together, amplifying each other’s voices. Let us be the change we wish to see. Let us encourage each other to dream big, to believe in our worth, and to know that we can shape the world. Because when one woman rises, we all rise. Happy Women’s Month!
~ Cong. MARICAR ZAMORA, Davao de Oro 1st District Representative
Growing up, I was blessed to be surrounded by strong, visionary and compassionate women in the family. I saw firsthand how women can have just the right mix of passion and purpose, determination and patience and the heart and grit to accomplish whatever she sets her mind into. Women have the special power to be catalysts of positive change - she is strong, dynamic, has grace under pressure and is a force to be reckoned with! So every day, we celebrate all the superwomen out there who make our world a better place for all!
~ NICOLE HAO BIAN LEDESMA, Davao Tourism Association President and Joji Ilagan International Schools COO
In my line of work as a lawyer and congresswoman, I’ve been told a lot of times that I can’t make it just because I’m a woman. And I proved them wrong every single time. I thank all those women who came before us for paving the way to better women representation in our nation today. But a lot of work has to be done as women continue to fight to earn our seats in the table. To all the women, especially young girls,
I hope that you will have the courage to dream.
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. And especially, don’t believe and listen to people who say that you can’t do it and you won’t get what you want in life just because you’re a woman.
~ Atty. MARGARITA “MIGS” NOGRALES, PBA Partylist Representative
Bilang isang empowered coffee farmer, gusto kong i-share ang aking talento sa pagkakape at passion ko at tulungan ang mga kababaehan na magkaroon nag sariling hanapbuhay para maitaguyod ang kanilang pamilya at magkaroon ng dagdag income kaya, nagtitrain ako ng mga coffee farmers na gustong maging champion katulad ko sa larangan ng kape at para makilala sa komunidad. Kaya sa mga kabaihan tulad ko, na kahit nasa sulok man tayo ng mundo, Laban lang.. patuloy tayong magsumikap para makamtan natin ang ating mga pangarap... At may maiwan tayong legasiya sa taking komunidad... Huwag tayong susuko dahil kung kaya ng mga lalaki,kayang kaya rin nating mga babae…
~ MARIVIC DUBRIA, Outstanding Women in Agriculture, Outstanding Rural Women 1st Runner-Up where she represented Davao Region in the national search
AS WE commemorate Women’s Month under the theme “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunyan,” let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a nation where every woman is given the opportunity to thrive, excel, and lead and acknowledge and uplift their strength, resilience, and empowerment.
Let us recognize the invaluable contributions of women in all facets of society - as leaders, innovators, caregivers, and change-makers. Their voices, experiences, and perspectives are essential in shaping a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
Together, let us continue to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and champion gender equality. Let us strive for a society where every woman is empowered to pursue her dreams, fulfill her potential, and contribute meaningfully to the progress of our nation.
This Women’s Month, let us celebrate the achievements of women past, present, and future, and recommit ourselves to the ongoing journey towards a more just, equitable, and empowered society for all.
Happy Women’s Month!
~ JANET D. FABRERO, Regional Prosecutor, Department of Justice-Regional Prosecutor’s Office 11
As a police officer, I want to remind all women that we are strong, capable, and powerful to face challenges and obstacles in life. It is important to remember that innate in us is our resilience and determination to overcome whatever life throws at us.
We, as women, have the ability to break barriers, be triumphant, and make great contributions in all aspects of our lives.
Regardless of our profession and social status, it is crucial for us to support and uplift one another, to celebrate each other’s successes, and to stand together in solidarity.
We must all work together so that all women can realize their full potential and not be defined by the limitations society may place on us. Instead, have the courage to do what you want to do and to be what you want to be. Let your intelligence, kindness, and determination flourish in making the world a better place.
Together, let us continue to inspire, empower, and cooperate with one another and show the world the limitless possibilities that exist when women from all sectors come together, united in our pursuit of equality, justice, and empowerment.
I am a proud policewoman, but more importantly, I am a proud woman who believes in the strength and potential of every individual. I survived in this field dominated by men, and I continue to ace my chosen profession despite being a woman because I believe that every woman deserves an equal opportunity with men.
So to every woman, especially girls; don’t limit yourselves and always pursue to develop and live to your full potential.
~ Police Major CATHERINE DELA REY, Police Regional Office-Davao (PRO-Davao) spokesperson