LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) – In celebration of National Women’s Month, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte’s Gender and Development (PGIN-GAD) Office has planned a series of empowering activities, including a grand parade, gender fora, and self-defense training, all designed to honor Ilokanas’ contributions to society and promote gender equality.
Janet Parado-London, focal person of the PGIN-GAD Office, emphasized the importance of the celebration in recognizing the role of women in society and promoting gender equality.
“This year’s theme is ‘Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,’ which highlights the importance of inclusive growth, ensuring that every woman has equal opportunities and access to resources for empowerment,” she said.
London highlighted that this year’s events are designed not only to celebrate women’s achievements but also to equip them with skills and knowledge that will benefit their overall well-being.
The province will welcome the celebration with a parade dubbed “Kinni-Kinni” (hip swaying) on March 8 in time for International Women’s Day with a Mardi Gras theme, bringing a colorful and lively start to the celebration.
This year, women muses aged 45 and above will gracefully parade in heels, highlighting the elegance and capability of the older generation—a shift from last year, when younger participants took the spotlight.
Representatives from different local government units (LGUs), national government offices, and non-government organizations will be participating in the parade to show their support for the celebration.
Moreover, on March 14, women employees of the provincial government will be treated to free beauty and health services, highlighting the importance of self-care and well-being.
To promote health and exercise, the GAD Office will also be spearheading a Zumba session for women on March 21 at the Centennial Arena in Laoag City.
The fitness event will be joined by women from different barangays and organizations in the province.
A training on basic self-defense and a Gender Forum will also be conducted at the towns of Nueva Era and Laoag City on March 26 and 31, respectively.
“The training and forum will be attended by barangay leaders and those who want to join because we think it is important for women to know how to defend themselves in cases of emergencies,” London added.
A Parent-Teen Talk will also be conducted on March 27 at the town of Pinili, where adolescents and their parents or guardians will receive training and guidance on effective communication, building healthy relationships, and navigating challenges during the teenage years.
London also encouraged other LGUs to submit requests for GAD-related training sessions, ensuring more women can be accommodated and empowered during Women’s Month.
With these initiatives, the GAD Office strengthens its commitment to empowering women, promoting gender equality, and cultivating a community where Ilokanas can thrive. (AMB/EJFG, PIA Ilocos Norte)
