In a significant stride towards empowering women, a transformative capability training program was organized in support of the National Women's Celebration Month from March 20-22, 2024, at the prestigious Lorenz International Skills Training Academy Incorporated in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental. The event, which saw the participation of 30 women, was conducted in partnership with the City Agriculture Office of Gingoog City, responding to their request for specialized training for women.
The training commenced with a welcome message from City Agriculturist Miriam A. De La Plaza in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental. In her message, she urged the participants to step out of their comfort zones and embrace urban gardening as a means to support the local community and contribute to alleviating poverty. She emphasized the importance of women playing an active role in creating sustainable food sources within their homes.
Following this, Attorney Crisjesa L. Flores-Gomez, PTRP, from PAO-Region X, shed light on RA 9262, also known as the Violence Against Women and their Children Act. She underscored the significance of women being aware of their rights and encouraged them to break free from traditional roles, emphasizing that they have the potential to be whoever they aspire to be. Attorney Ismael I. Macapaar, CPA, from PAO-Region X, delved into the Magna Carta of Women or RA 9710, outlining the privileges safeguarded by the law and empowering the participants with knowledge of their entitlements.
On the second day, Training Specialist II Teodosia D. Jaraba delved into topics such as The Role of Filipino Women in Agriculture, Urban Gardening, and Composting, highlighting the pivotal role women play in sustainable agriculture practices. Technical Support Staff Eugelyn C. Cailing-Mauna provided insights into the Production Guide of Common Lowland Vegetables, equipping the participants with practical knowledge to enhance their agricultural endeavors.
The day culminated in a field activity where Ms. Jaraba demonstrated soil media preparation, compost making, and how to take care of growing seedlings. Also, a Facebook live showing on Agri-Storyahay sa ATI with the title “Bet-na-Bet sa Rabbit featuring Ms. Maggie Zapanta-Tse, owner of Lorenz International Skills Training, Inc., and a field visit to Hydroleaf Farm in Civoleg, Lunotan, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental. The hands-on experiences allowed the participants to witness firsthand the application of the skills and knowledge acquired during the training, fostering a deeper understanding of urban gardening and sustainable agricultural practices.
The National Women's Celebration Month event at Lorenz International Skills Training Academy Incorporated was a testament to the commitment to empowering women and equipping them with the tools to thrive in various spheres of life. As the participants return to their communities, they carry with them not just knowledge but a renewed sense of empowerment and determination to effect positive change in the communities where they live. (submitted by: Teodosia D. Jaraba, Training Specialist III)
