PSA Negros Occidental and She Space Ignite National Women’s Month with “Equality Walk” and Empowerment Seminars at The Upper East

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BACOLOD, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) – Negros Occidental Provincial Statistical Office, in partnership with women’s community organization She Space and supported by Megaworld Corporation, officially launched the 2026 National Women’s Month Celebration at The Upper East. Under the inspiring theme, “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”, the event gathered approximately 100 participants—including representatives from Provincial Line Agencies, Local Civil Registrars, students, and members of the public—all draped in purple to advocate for gender equality and holistic empowerment.

The morning kicked off at 5:30 AM with an Equality Walk followed by a high- energy Zumba session, symbolizing the strength and vitality of the Filipina.

During the opening ceremonies, Ms. Diesah S. Biaoco, Supervising Statistical Specialist of PSA-Negros Occidental, emphasized that the agency’s mission goes beyond data.

“We believe that behind every statistic is a story, and behind every number is a woman who deserves to be seen, counted, and heard,” Biaoco stated. “Empowerment means giving women the tools, the confidence, and the right to decide their own futures”.

In a message highlighting the agency’s deep commitment to the cause, John F. Campomanes, Chief Statistical Specialist and OIC-Regional Director of RSSO- NIR, noted that the gathering was more than just a celebration of a new day. “At the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), we don’t just count people; we make sure every woman counts,” Campomanes shared. “We are deeply committed to advocating for a world where every woman is empowered, her voice is heard, and her dreams have no limits”.

The celebration transitioned into a series of impactful seminars designed to address the physical, mental, and professional well-being of women. These included sessions on Mental Health Awareness by Rio Marie G. Raipan and Cervical Cancer Awareness by Dr. Lea R. Tipagad-Suelto. Personal development talks were led by two notable local figures: Jada Biaxyl Celeste, Lin-ay sang Negros 2025, who spoke on “Strength in Softness: The Modern Filipina,” and Julianah Cassandra Makilan, Lin-ay sang Negros 2025 2nd Runner-Up, who discussed “Women Supporting Women: Building Communities, Not Competition”.

The event was made possible through the collaboration of various National Government Agencies (NGAs) and Local Civil Registry Offices, with Atty. Nelie France Sanchez representing She Space—an organization dedicated to creating “safe spaces” where women can thrive. The organizers extended their deepest gratitude to Megaworld Corporation Bacolod for providing the vibrant venue at The Upper East.

As National Women’s Month continues, PSA-Negros Occidental and She Space invite the public to continue supporting initiatives that create “soil in which the seeds of greatness can grow” for every Filipina.