Celebrating Women’s Resilience: Highlights from the 2nd Week Celebration of the National Women’s Month 2024

As part of the month-long celebration of National Women’s Month 2024, the Land Management Bureau (LMB) marked its second week celebration with a series of empowering events aimed at honouring the resilience and achievements of Women across various fields. From thought-provoking film screenings to inspiring testimonies, the week was filled with meaningful conversations and reflections.

On March 11, 2024, the LMB hosted a captivating film showing titled “EmpowerHER: A Cinematic Celebration of Women’s Resilience.”  This event showcased an empowering film that shed light on the journeys and triumphs of Women. Attended by enthusiastic LMB employees alongside representatives from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government – MIMAROPA (DILG-MIMAROPA), the film showing provided a platform to celebrate the strength and resilience of Women in the face of challenges.

The film served as a reminder that no matter what the challenges they face, Women have the power to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

Following the film showing, on March 13, 2024, the Gender and Development Focal Point System (GAD FPS) of LMB organized a one-day forum entitled “Voices of Empowerment: Inspiring Testimonies from Women Across Industries.” This forum served as a space for Women from diverse backgrounds to share their personal accounts and insights, offering valuable lessons and inspiration to all participants.

During the first session of the forum, two remarkable Women took the stage to share their empowering stories. Ms. Carla Dela Cruz, a dedicated Special Education (SPED) teacher and a person with disability (PWD), captivated the audience with her inspirational journey. Reflecting on her experiences, Ms. Dela Cruz shared her wisdom and resilience, leaving the audience inspired by her unwavering determination and passion. She emphasized, “As a Woman, always remember  that, we are all equal regardless of our physical looks, and we are powerful.” Her words left a lasting impression, inspiring individuals to embrace their own strength and potential.

Ms. Dela Cruz’s story demonstrating that with perseverance and determination, one can overcome any obstacle. Her dedication to her profession and her unwavering belief in the power of education served as inspiration to all participants.

For the next speaker, Hon. Angelika Dela Cruz, an accomplished artist, devoted mother, social influencer, and Barangay Chairperson from Longos, Malabon. With grace and conviction, she shared her multifaceted roles and the challenges she has overcome along the way. Ms. Dela Cruz emphasized the importance of perseverance and self-belief, stating, “Bilang Babae,  we do not limit ourselves. Bilang Babae, we can do anything, we can dream big. Bilang Babae, you are powerful and your voice matters.” Her empowering message resonated deeply, encouraging Women to embrace their aspirations boldly and to wield their voices with confidence.

In a world where gender equality remains a pressing issue, Hon. Angelika Dela Cruz’s speech served as a reminder of the importance of empowering Women to recognize their worth and to stand tall in the face of hardship. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in oneself.

In the final session of the forum, Vice Mayor Karina Teh of Caloocan City delivered a compelling testimony, reflecting on her journey in public service. With passion and resilience, Vice Mayor Teh shared her vision for a more inclusive and equitable society, highlighting the pivotal role of Women in driving progress and social change. She emphasized, “Ilang beses man nila sinabi na hindi mo pwede gawin yan, at hindi mo kaya yan dahil isa tayong babae. Pero Ilang beses din natin naipapakita at napatunayan na kaya natin lahat ng yan dahil isa tayong babae.”. Her words served as a testament to the power of determination and perseverance in overcoming obstacles.

Vice Mayor Teh testimony highlight the importance of challenging societal norms and stereotypes that limit the potential of Women. By advocating for gender equality and inclusivity, she emphasized the transformative impact that Women can have in shaping a more equitable society. Her unwavering commitment to breaking barriers and effecting positive change served as an inspiration to all participants.

As the forum came to an end, Director. Emelyne V. Talabis shared inspirational messages. She said,  “Let us carry the torch of inspiration forward and continue to make a difference in the lives of those around us. Regardless of who we are or where we come from, may the stories we’ve heard today serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the incredible impact we can make when we embrace our own power and strive to empower others.” Dir. Talabis emphasized the importance of embracing our own abilities and empowering others. Her words served as a reminder of the potential within each of us to create change and support those in need.

As the second week of National Women’s Month came to a close, the Land Management Bureau will continue its commitment to promote gender equality and Women’s empowerment through meaningful events and initiatives throughout the gap, paving the way for a more inclusive and empowered society for all.