Iloilo opens National Women’s Month programs

By Mariela Angella Oladive

A series of health, employment, and livelihood initiatives will take center stage this March as Iloilo Province marks the 2026 National Women’s Month.

The observance officially kicked off Monday, March 2, at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, with provincial officials rolling out a monthlong lineup of programs aimed at expanding opportunities, improving access to essential services, and strengthening the role of Ilongga women in community development.

Vice Gov. Nathalie Ann “Lee Ann” Debuque underscored the importance of recognizing women as partners in development.

“This month we are celebrating the beauty and resilience of women. So during this month, we truly give life to our appreciation and our love for women, who are our partners in building the progress of the Province of Iloilo,” Debuque said.

From March 2–31, Tiendas Ilonggas will feature products from women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises, along with agricultural goods from local women entrepreneurs, farmers, and fisherfolk at the Capitol to help widen market access and income opportunities.

Free services will also be offered throughout the month, including “Alalayi si Babayi” legal assistance from March 2–6, “Healthy HER” cancer screening and health education sessions on March 6, 13, 20, and 27, and “LAB U WOMEN” laboratory services for employees.

To support employment generation, the Provincial Public Employment Service Office will hold the Bida Ilongga Job Fair on March 12 at Casa Real de Iloilo, directly linking jobseekers with employers.

Additional activities include skills training, a women’s forum on sustainable communities, and self-defense training in partnership with the Iloilo Police Provincial Office.

Anchored on the theme “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society,” the observance is in line with Proclamation No. 227 and is spearheaded nationwide by the Philippine Commission on Women.

Proclamation No. 227 provides for the observance of March as Women’s Role in History Month, while related issuances also recognize Women’s Week in the first week of March and March 8 as National Women’s Day.

The Provincial Gender and Development Unit encouraged the public to participate, emphasizing that Women’s Month is not only a celebration but also a continuing commitment to inclusive and responsive governance.