BUTUAN CITY- In its support of the empowerment of women who are taking important roles in society, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) XIII conducted a special women’s month celebration program for its staff, on-the-job training students, and training participants.

On March 1, 2024, government agencies participated in a kick-off program at the Philippine Science High School – Caraga Region Campus in Tiniwisan, Butuan City. This was led by the Regional Gender and Development Council (RGADC) with Regional Director Alexander A. Makinano of the Commission on Population and Development (PopCom Dev) as RGADC Chairperson.

During the activity, PopCom Dev Undersecretary Lisa Grace Bersales served as the keynote speaker where she encouraged women to stand up and take courage to voice out their views and fight discrimination.

In the afternoon, a presentation on the Safe Spaces Act and Anti-sexual Harassment was done by Elena Madelo, ATI-RTC XIII Training Specialist I and GAD point person. Simulations on different situations acted by OJTs were done and discussed by employees through an open forum. A tribute to women was done also through a video presentation and the giving of assorted chocolate bouquets.

“As women, we need not be fearful to voice out our ideas and call for support in a society that is still not open for equality. Women help women. We should strive to be a helping hand for each other, encouraging all to be treated equally,” says Violeta Laguna, OIC-Asst. Center Director of ATI-RTC XIII, during the center’s opening program.

Throughout March, the Center prepared a series of films featuring women on Wednesdays at 1-3 pm and Zumba activities on Wednesdays and Fridays at 3:30-4:30 pm.

This year’s celebration revolves around its theme set by the Philippine Commission on Women which says, “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan” with the hashtag #WEcanbeEquALL.