Women from different barangays in General Santos City recently showcased their cooking prowess during the Barangay Women’s Federation Cooking Contest in celebration of National Women’s Month at the Robinsons Place in General Santos City.
Not only have they shown their culinary expertise but also demonstrated camaraderie and teamwork, signaling a high level of empowerment.
Organized by the City Population Management Office (CPMO), the event highlighted the significant role of women in various spectra, especially in shaping a more inclusive and empowered society.
“True progress is only possible when women are given equal opportunities, protected by strong laws, and supported in their journey toward leadership and success. Let this celebration serve as a reaffirmation of our commitment to gender equality and a call to action for all sectors to uplift and empower women,” CPMO Head Judith Janiola emphasized.
Janiola also highlighted that the Bagong Pilipinas vision is deeply tied to gender inclusivity and women’s leadership, adding that women have always been at the heart of the nation’s growth, leading in government, education, business, healthcare, and countless other fields.
Empowering women
Contestants displayed their culinary creativity using broccoli as the main ingredient in preparing nutritious and healthy dishes.
Expressing pride, Grace B. Alfanta, Barangay Kagawad of Dadiangas North, noted her barangay’s long-standing participation in Women’s Month celebrations in the city.
“For so many years, Barangay Dadiangas North has actively joined this occasion to empower us women,” she shared.
For Flora Galimba Harder from Barangay Calumpang, the competition was a new and exciting experience.
“Grabe gid akong kalipay kay wala pako ka-experience ani. First time nakon,” she said, expressing gratitude to the government for providing women opportunities to showcase their talents.
([I am overjoyed because I have never experienced this before. This is my first time.)
The event also offered attendees free medical consultations, haircuts, massages, and wellness services, further stressing the significance of the celebration to women’s well-being.
Raising awareness
The event also served as a platform to educate women on their rights and protection against abuse.
Lawyer Joy Balayon Mariano, president of Zonta Club International and resource speaker, emphasized the need for gender equality and women’s empowerment through education.
“Zonta International is committed to ensuring that women are educated, aware of their rights, and equipped to stand against discrimination and violence. Equality does not mean ruling over men, but having equal opportunities, rights, and respect,” she said.
The organization empowers women through advocacy, service projects, and educational initiatives aimed at combating gender-based violence and promoting women’s leadership.
Mariano also discussed Republic Act 9262, known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act, and Republic Act 9208, or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, as she urged women to get well-informed and proactive in protecting themselves.
“The most powerful tool is education. When women know their rights, they are empowered to fight for them,” she pointed out.
The city’s Women’s Month celebration will end on March 31, as it promises to converge all government offices in General Santos in a tree-growing activity. (HJPF, PIA SarGen)
