ILOILO CITY - The annual Rural Improvement Club (RIC) of the Philippines has recently conducted its 87th National Convention with its theme “Empowering Rural Women to Cope with Climate Change and Promote Green Economy in the Philippines.”
Participated by 388 rural women from over 16 regions of the Philippines, the convention reinforced the vital role of the rural women in promoting the green economy in the Philippines and enhancing the quality of life in rural areas by empowering rural women and fostering community engagement.
During the convention, City Agriculturist Iñigo D. Garingalao of Iloilo City, who spoke on behalf of Iloilo Governor Arthur R. Defensor Jr., Governor, emphasized the role of the women in uplifting the agriculture and rural development through the promotion of sustainable farming practices.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. represented by the ATI Deputy Director Antonieta J. Arceo conveyed the challenges of climate change and the role of women in rural areas in achieving sustainable development to attain zero hunger and end poverty in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development plan.
The convention served as an avenue for the rural women to address the pressing issues of the country and reaffirmed its commitment to its duty of fostering sustainable development environmental stewardship. The three-day activity was filled with opportunities for rural women both in private and public agencies, relevant topics related to climate change and green economy, and camaraderie among its participants.
The RIC also paid special tribute to its pioneer, Maria Orosa y Ylagan with the ceremonial turnover of the book “Maria Orosa”.
The convention was held last November 18 to 20, 2024 at Grand Xing Imperial Hotel, Iloilo City.
