By Nimfa L. Estrellado Governor Angelina “Helen” Tan at the opening of the “Tiangge ni Juana” on March 3, 2025 at Provintial Capitol Compund...
 |
| Governor Angelina “Helen” Tan at the opening of the “Tiangge ni Juana” on March 3, 2025 at Provintial Capitol Compund, Lucena City, Quezon celebrating the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit of Quezonian women. (QUEZON PIO) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Quezon Province joins the nation in celebrating National Women’s Month this March, honoring the invaluable contributions of women in nation-building and their vital role in shaping society. The province has launched a series of vibrant events and initiatives to mark the occasion, highlighting the strength, resilience, and achievements of Quezonian women.
One of the highlights of the celebration is the “Tiangge ni Juana,” a vibrant marketplace showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit and creativity of Quezonian women. This annual event provides a platform for women entrepreneurs and organizations to display and sell their products, ranging from handcrafted jewelry and woven textiles to locally sourced delicacies and innovative crafts.
In an exclusive interview on “Straight Talk,” Sedfrey R. Potestades, Assistant Department Head of the Provincial Gender and Development Office (PGAD) on March 7, 2025, emphasized the province’s dedication to women’s empowerment. He stated, “This year’s Women’s Month celebration is a testament to our unwavering commitment to empowering Quezonian women.”
Potestades highlighted the collaborative efforts to promote and sustain gender equality in Quezon. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity and providing equal opportunities for everyone, stating, “We are united in the goal of safeguarding and promoting gender equality, focusing on the equal and inclusive distribution of privileges and opportunities for everyone.”
“Our programs extend beyond mere celebration; we are dedicated to creating sustainable initiatives that ensure women’s rights are protected and their voices are heard. Currently, our budget prioritizes addressing these issues, creating a solid foundation for women’s empowerment to flourish.” Potestades added.
Potestades also highlighted the need for continuous education and advocacy to change societal attitudes towards violence against women. He stressed the importance of early education in empowering women and acknowledged the deeply ingrained patriarchal structure that perpetuates inequality. He affirmed that the PGAD prioritizes initiatives supporting women, including their psychological well-being.
“We believe that through information dissemination, community dialogues, and educational seminars, we can raise awareness and transform attitudes that perpetuate violence against women,” he stated. He also highlighted Men Opposed to Violence Against Women Everywhere (MOVE), encouraging men to participate in promoting gender equality.
The 2025 National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC) carries the sub-theme: “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas.” This reinforces the core objective of RA 9710, or the Magna Carta of Women—to empower women, promote gender equality, and ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities.
While LGBTQ community is providing free beautification and grooming services to shoppers at the “Tiangge ni Juana,” which is open from March 3 to March 7 a vibrant “Zumba Para Kay Juana” event was held at the Quezon Convention Center, Lucena City, to kick off Women’s Month 2025, with over 6,120 women from across Quezon Province participating.
This year’s focus will continue to support the administration’s brand of governance and leadership, aligning with its rallying cry for an all-inclusive plan for economic and social transformation. Citizens are encouraged to show their support by wearing anything purple every Wednesday of March, as the province participates in “Purple Wednesdays.” This symbolic gesture promotes women’s rights and gender equality.
Beyond the festivities, Quezon Province is actively engaged in various initiatives to empower women throughout the month. A tree-planting campaign symbolizing the nurturing and growth of women’s potential is underway. Additionally, livelihood programs specifically designed to support female Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) are providing them with opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Governor Tan, speaking at the opening ceremony of the “Tiangge ni Juana,” emphasized the importance of National Women’s Month in recognizing the multifaceted contributions of women. She said this is a time to celebrate the achievements of women, acknowledge the challenges they face, and reaffirm our commitment to creating a society where their rights are protected and their potential is fully realized.
The female governor also pledged to uphold the Magna Carta of Women at the barangay and municipal levels. She emphasized the importance of collaboration with law enforcement and community organizations to combat gender-based violence.
The Quezon Provincial Police Office is implementing Project LUCAS to address this issue. This initiative aims to orient communities about the “Safe Spaces Act” (Republic Act 11313) and promote the creation of safe spaces free from sexual harassment and gender-based violence.
Women’s Month serves as a crucial period to recognize the contributions and achievements of women across various societal sectors. It also reinforces the ongoing struggle for gender equality and women’s empowerment. In the coming days, numerous activities are expected to further exhibit the strength, courage, and talent of Quezon’s women.
No comments