ILIGAN CITY (PIA) — Women from various barangays here came together for a Purple Rally to celebrate Women’s Month, emphasizing the importance of women’s rights, gender equality, and empowerment in society.
The event, organized by the city government through its Gender and Development Office, provided women a platform to showcase their talents, express their voices on key issues, and celebrate their roles in the family and community. They also enjoyed a raffle for household items.
Rosa Maria Navalta, president of the Brgy. Tambacan Women’s Association, expressed her joy for the annual event and the support from the city government, particularly the Bigasan Livelihood Project which benefits women across 34 barangays.
She underscored the significance of celebrating Women’s Month to highlight the strength and capabilities of women.
“Sobra among kalipay kay every year mani ginacelebrate. Amoang barangay, supportive pod sa amoa. Importante nga isaulog ni para mapakita unsa gyud mahimo ug unsay kaayohan na makuha nila gikan sa women nga mahimo usab bisan nga mga kababainhan mi,” she said.
(We are very happy because this is celebrated every year. Our barangay is also supportive of us. It is important to celebrate this to show what women can really do and the benefits they can gain from women, even though we are women.)
Rizalyn Silao of Brgy. Ma Cristina stressed that women play a vital role in both the family and society, stating that nothing would be possible without them. She encouraged women to care for their families to affirm their worth and prevent their contributions from being overlooked.
Melinda Macalisang called for greater advancement and equal representation for women.
“Para sa akoa, kinahanglan naa pod improvement ang mga babae, dili kay lalaki ra, naa pod ang kababainhan. Ipaglaban jud ang kababainhan,” she said.
(For me, there should also be improvement for women, not just for men, but also for women. Women should really fight for their rights.)
Milagros Subido, president of the C3 Women’s Association in Purok Merila, Barangay Ubaldo Laya, urged women to stay active, take on responsibility, and support each other in community activities. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
