BUTUAN CITY - The Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center buzzed with empowerment and advocacy on March 10, 2025, as the Regional Development Council Caraga Region's Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) successfully hosted the Caraga Women's Summit 2025. The full-day event, themed "WE for gender equality and inclusive society" and echoing the national call "Women in all sectors, the future will rise in the New Philippines," celebrated the remarkable achievements of women in the region and championed the cause of gender equality.
The summit offered a comprehensive program designed to inform, inspire, and connect participants. Throughout the day, attendees had access to Government Services Booths, where agencies such as TESDA, PSA, DOT, DOST, DICT, DOLE, DTI, RIACAT, CPD, DOH, and NNC provided valuable services and information, underscoring the government's commitment to supporting women across various sectors.
A highlight of the event was the Recognition of Successful Women in Caraga. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) presented awards to outstanding women entrepreneurs and exemplary rural women, celebrating their significant contributions to the region's progress.
The summit also featured insightful Keynote Speeches. Hon. Judy Chin-Amante, the City Mayor of Cabadbaran and Chairperson of the RDC Social Development Committee, delivered a powerful address emphasizing the critical role of women's empowerment and leadership. Sharing her personal journey as a solo parent for nearly 14 years, Mayor Chin-Amante inspired the audience with her resilience and determination in raising her children and overcoming challenges.
The afternoon was dedicated to enriching Learning Sessions covering a diverse range of relevant topics. Participants gained valuable knowledge on data appreciation regarding gender statistics, DOLE employment programs, the benefits of the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, the PhilHealth Konsulta Benefit Package, contact information for the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and MISMO posters, DOST graduate scholarship programs, and crucial information on cybercrime awareness.
Practical skills were also showcased through a Skills Demonstration by Dina B. Sibi from the Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries, TESDA, providing attendees with tangible learning opportunities.
The summit also served as a platform for Advocacy and Awareness. Members of the PNP engaged the audience with a powerful One Billion Rising advocacy dance, while RIACAT (Regional Inter-Agency Committee Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children) hosted an advocacy booth raising awareness on VAWC.