La Union kicked off Women's Month with a powerful message of women empowerment through its annual pageant, "Mutia ti La Union."
 
The pageant, traditionally held during the province's anniversary celebration, features 20 candidates representing each local government unit (LGU).

Each year, the event champions a different cause, with 2020 spotlighting "agri-tourism" and 2023 focusing on "environmental conservation and protection."
 
This year, in resonance with the National Women's Month theme, "Mutia ti La Union 2024" embraced women's empowerment as its central theme.
 
During the coronation night on March 2, Governor Raphaelle "Rafy" Ortega-David encouraged women to draw strength from the examples of empowered women, mirroring her own journey as La Union's first female governor.
 
"Imagine a world where women's worth is not measured by outdated stereotypes," Governor Ortega-David challenged the audience.
 
She highlighted the historical limitations placed on women and her own experience defying them.
 
Beyond the governor's inspiring message, the pageant acknowledged remarkable women from the province who have excelled in various fields, including entrepreneurship, arts, sports, and academics.
 
Among them was Dr. Menchie De Guzman, founder of a crochet organization in Bauang.
 
She emphasized the importance of empowering others, stating, "Reviving the craft, I was able to empower the women of Bauang."
 
Other honorees included Remedios Lucina (abel weaver), Daisy Valdez (international surfer), Zamantha Fin (young entrepreneur), Brenda Padilla (special education teacher), and Joy Ortega (chairperson of La Union Vibrant Women Incorporated).

That night, Prianka Elina Goswami from San Juan was crowned Mutia ti La Union 2024.
 
“Being raised by a single mom made me realize that having a complete family is a blessing but having a solo parent is a rare opportunity to become [the] strong and empowered woman I am today,” Goswami said.  
 
“As an advocate for solo parents, it is my duty to expand the horizon of opportunities for solo parents. To capacitate them with proper skills and training to realize their value and unleash their full potential in nation building they are the true representation of a strong independent woman,” she added.
 
Adding to the significance of the event was the all-female selection committee, featuring prominent figures like entrepreneur Rhea Tan, designer Glademir Echavarre, journalist Niña Corpuz, Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Marquez Dee, and the first Filipina Miss Universe, La Union native Gloria Diaz.
 
Dee emphasized the importance of unity and celebrating the diverse stories of Filipina women.
 
The ceremony was further enriched by all-female hosts – beauty queens MJ Lastimosa, Nicole Cordoves, and Emma Tiglao.
 
Additionally, women in uniform from various agencies in Region 1 participated in the event such as the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, and  Philippine Air Force.
 
"Mutia ti La Union 2024" served as a powerful testament to the diverse achievements and potential of women.
 
As Governor Ortega-David stated, "This Women's Month, let us celebrate women and their worth in this world. Together, we can empower more!". (JCR/AMB/REB/PIA Region 1)