In celebration of National Women’s Month, the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office X (DSWD 10) reaffirms its commitment to community service by empowering its workforce. With the theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the office has organized a series of capacity-building and wellness activities for its employees — recognizing that an empowered workforce leads to better service for the people of Northern Mindanao.

The month-long celebration officially commenced with a kick-off activity on March 3, 2025, attended by various partner agencies and stakeholders.

Throughout March, partner agencies are sharing their expertise through a range of educational and practical activities for DSWD 10 employees and staff, including:

• Orientation on Edible Gardening by the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office X — promoting sustainable urban and backyard gardening practices by encouraging employees to grow their own food.
• Massage Services by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Region X graduates.
• Theoretical Driving Course by the Land Transportation Office Region X — equipping participants with essential road safety knowledge and driving principles.
• Free Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination for clients and daughters of DSWD FO X employees by the Department of Health (DOH) Region X — ensuring protection against HPV, a leading cause of cervical cancer.
• Free Breast Self-Examination Screening and Consultation by Northern Mindanao Medical Center.
• Wellness Booth offering free vitamins, as well as free blood pressure and muscle strength check-ups.

In addition to these collaborative efforts, DSWD 10 is also leading its own capacity-building and awareness activities:

• Orientation on the Safe Spaces Act — educating participants about the law that protects individuals from gender-based sexual harassment in public spaces, workplaces, and online.
• Discussion on the First 1000 Days of Life — highlighting the importance of proper nutrition and care from pregnancy to a child’s second birthday for long-term health and development.

Further emphasizing its commitment to supporting vulnerable women, DSWD 10, in partnership with the Regional Gender and Development Committee, will conduct an outreach program for the Home for Girls and Regional Haven for Women clients on March 13-14, 2025. This initiative aims to provide essential resources, care, and encouragement toward healing and recovery for women in difficult circumstances.

Regional Director Ramel F. Jamen emphasized the significance of empowering women and fostering an inclusive society:

“In the Philippines, women continue to play a key role in leadership, governance, education, healthcare, and social progress. However, challenges remain, and this month serves as a reminder of our responsibility to advance policies and programs that empower women, promote gender equality, and protect their rights.”

To symbolize solidarity with women’s empowerment and gender equality, all employees are encouraged to wear purple every Wednesday throughout March. Through these initiatives, DSWD 10 not only celebrates the achievements of women but also reinforces its commitment to advancing gender equality and inclusive development — ensuring that no one is left behind. ###