TUBOD, Lanao del Norte (PIA) -- Underscoring the contributions of women in Lanao del Norte, the province here joined in the celebration of International Women's Month.
Dubbed "Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan," the event, attended by members of women's federations from the different municipalities, highlighted the crucial role of women in shaping a fair and progressive society.
The provincial government of Lanao del Norte, headed by Gov. and Northern Mindanao Regional Development Council Chairperson Imelda 'Angging' Quibranza-Dimaporo, expressed its unwavering support for women's organizations during the festivities.
"I believe nga kitang mga kababaihan nagdala og labing hinungdanong bahin sa atong katilingban. Kini akong napamatud-an dili lang kay usa ako ka babaye, apan mao gyud kini ang atong masinati og mabantayan sa atong mga komunidad," she said.
[I believe that women play the most significant role in our society. This is something I have proven, not just because I am a woman, but because this is truly what we feel and observe in our communities.]
"I know all the municipalities are trying their best to showcase that here in the Land of Beauty and Bounty, women's empowerment is very alive and thriving in terms of government programs," said 1st District District Representative Khalid Dimaporo.
He also reiterated the importance of unity so that peace will prevail in Lanao del Norte and protect not only the communities, but also the most vulnerable—the senior citizens and the women.
"We are given the will or the empowerment for our voices to be heard, but unta dili nato i-abuse. Ipakita nato na dapat gina-respeto tang mga babae [but hopefully we should not abuse it. Let us show that women should be respected], we should not take advantage," said 2nd District District Rep. Aminah Quibranza Dimaporo.
A solo singing contest was also held to showcase the remarkable talent of women from various towns. The competition's grand champion, 1st runner-up, and 2nd runner-up received P10,000, P7,000, and P5,000, respectively. All non-winning contenders also received P2,000 as consolation prizes.
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, along with the Provincial Gender and Development team, also gave away different home appliances to lucky attendees. (PIO Lanao del Norte/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
