BAGUIO CITY(PIA) -- Female personnel of the Apayao Provincial Police Office(PPO) were recognized during the kick-off ceremony of the National Women's Month celebration at the Camp Gov. Elias K Bulut Sr and Training Center in Luna, Apayao

Engr. Ronalyn P. Ubiña, the  district engineer of the Department of Public Works and Highways Apayao Second District Engineering Office, and Police Provincial Director  PCol. Jefferson Cariaga awarded certificates of commendation to the female uniformed, and non-uniformed personnel for their dedication, and efforts in combating criminality, illegal drugs, terrorism, and gender-based violence have significantly enhanced the credibility and competence of the Apayao police.

Ubiña commended the women personnel of the Apayao PPO for their accomplishments, and contributions, and urged them to continue to be role models who inspire people around them. 

“To all the phenomenal women of the Philippine National Police, you are beacons of inspiration. Your commitment to upholding justice, ensuring safety, and building trust within our communities is a testament to the indomitable spirit that defines the essence of womanhood,” Ubiña said in her message.

She cited that celebrating Women's Month is not merely a celebration of gender; it is a celebration of diversity, resilience, and the incredible strides women have made in  the world, and present generation.

“I stand before you today with immense pride, and gratitude as we celebrate Women's Month, a time to recognize, and honor the invaluable contributions of women. It is also a valuable opportunity to reflect on the achievements, and contributions of women throughout history, recognize our progress, and acknowledge the challenges that still lie ahead,” Ubiña said.

She thanked all those working to  realize Women's Month advocacies, and that the Women's Month inspires them to take bold steps towards a more inclusive, and equitable future.

Ubiña also commended the PNP, and the DPWH for their proactive approach in gender and development advocacies.

She said that in 2020, the PNP adopted its Gender and Development manual highlighting that women  empowerment in the PNP would encourage them to be independent, boost their self-esteem, and generate confidence as they face difficult situations related to policing.

The DPWH, on the other hand, has been consistently developing gender-responsive infrastructure projects that contribute to ensuring gender equality and protection of all stakeholders, particularly women workers. For this, it has received the “GADtimpala” Awards from the Philippine Commission on Women.

“Despite these efforts, let us acknowledge the present and envision a more empowered future. I enjoin all of us for the call to action to actively dismantle the remaining barriers that hinder women's full participation in all aspects of life. In pursuing gender equality, let us recognize that breaking barriers requires a collective effort. It necessitates collaboration between men and women across all sectors, and industries, and within every community,” she said.

Cariaga said the National Women's Month celebration reaffirms the commitment of the Apayao police in promoting gender equality, diversity, and inclusivity in all aspects of its operations. JDP/RMC- PIA-CAR)((Apayao PPO photos)