In a vibrant display of unity, empowerment, and purpose, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center 8 (ATI-RTC 8) proudly joined the nationwide celebration of the 2026 National Women’s Month this March. Anchored on the theme “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society” and guided by the sub-theme “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”, the month-long celebration highlighted the strength of collective action in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment.
A Meaningful Kick-Off: Honoring Women of ATI-RTC 8
The celebration officially opened on March 2 through a heartfelt tribute led by the Gender and Development (GAD) Committee. The activity honored the invaluable contributions of women in the organization and recognized their vital roles both in the workplace and in society. Adding warmth to the celebration, ATI Juans serenaded the women through a harana and special performances—symbolizing appreciation, respect, and solidarity.
Promoting Health and Well-Being
In line with its commitment to holistic empowerment, ATI-RTC 8, in partnership with the Baybay City Health Office (CHO), conducted a Seminar on Cervical and Prostate Cancer Prevention on March 17, 2026. The session equipped participants with vital knowledge on the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer, led by Dr. Apple Kea Krissha S. Abarquez. Meanwhile, Mr. Wayne P. Gunhurun highlighted the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyle practices and fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive workplace. The activity also included Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) screening for ATI staff, underscoring the value of proactive health care and early intervention in safeguarding well-being.
Empowering Women in Agriculture: From Farm to Femme
One of the banner activities of the celebration was “From Farm to Femme: Celebrating Women’s Contributions to Agriculture,” held on March 18–19 at PhilRootcrops, Visayas State University in Baybay City, Leyte. The two-day activity gathered 45 participants from nine women’s associations across Eastern Visayas, providing a platform to strengthen women’s capacities in agri-enterprise and value-adding opportunities for root crops.
Through technical sessions on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOP), enterprise development, Technology Business Incubation (TBI), business registration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and social media marketing, participants gained practical knowledge essential for transforming skills into sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The activity reaffirmed the critical role of women in driving agricultural innovation and enterprise development in their communities.
Creativity and Expression through #CRAFTivate
ATI-RTC 8 also celebrated women’s creativity and innovation through the #CRAFTivate: Celebrating Resilience, Art, Femininity, and Transformation workshop on flower arrangement and event styling held on March 25, 2026.
Facilitated by Mr. Grego Libres and Ms. Connie Libres of Flower Jasmine, the activity brought together staff in an immersive creative experience that highlighted artistry as a form of leadership and expression.
Beyond aesthetics, the workshop served as a powerful reminder that creativity is deeply connected to empowerment—reflecting the ability of women to transform ideas into meaningful and impactful outcomes.
Giving Back to the Community: Empowering Solo Parents
The celebration culminated with a meaningful outreach initiative under #GADBacktotheCommunity through the Donut-Making Livelihood Training for Solo Parents, conducted in partnership with the Baybay City Technical Vocational Training Center on March 30–31.
The activity aimed to equip selected solo parents with practical skills in food production and entrepreneurship, enabling them to explore additional income-generating opportunities and strengthen financial independence for their families.
With the guidance of resource persons Mr. Phil Jude Mabuto and Ms. Sheryl Corcelles, participants engaged in both theoretical discussions and hands-on training that fostered confidence, self-reliance, and entrepreneurial mindset development.
Moving Forward Together
ATI-RTC 8’s celebration of the 2026 National Women’s Month goes beyond a series of activities—it is a reaffirmation of its commitment to building an inclusive society where women are empowered, valued, and given equal opportunities to lead and thrive.
As the institution continues to champion gender equality through programs and partnerships, it echoes a powerful message: when women are supported, communities flourish. Together, as WE, ATI-RTC 8 stands firm in advancing a future where every Filipina can lead, inspire, and transform society—just like the Babaylans of the past.
