The Iloilo Provincial Government kicked off its 2026 National Women’s Month Celebration during Monday’s flag-raising ceremony at the Provincial Capitol, rolling out a monthlong lineup of programs focused on health, livelihood, employment and women’s empowerment.
Vice Governor Lee Ann Debuque said the celebration honors the beauty and resilience of women as vital partners in building a progressive Iloilo.
“This month we are celebrating the beauty and the resilience of women. Gani sa sini nga bulan ikabuhi guid naton ang pagtaha kag ang aton nga pagpalangga sa mga kababaihan nga aton mga partners sa pagtib-ong sa kauswagan sa probinsya sang Iloilo,” said Debuque.
From March 2 to 31, Tiendas Ilonggas features MSME and agri-products of local women entrepreneurs, farmers and fisherfolk at the Capitol, giving them a wider market and added income opportunities.
Free services are also being offered, including “Alalayi si Babayi” legal assistance (March 2–6), “Healthy HER” cancer screening and health education sessions (March 6, 13, 20, 27), and “LAB U WOMEN” laboratory services for employees. These initiatives aim to make healthcare and legal support more accessible to Ilonggas.
On March 12, the Provincial PESO will hold the Bida Ilongga Job Fair at the Casa Real de Iloilo, connecting jobseekers directly with employers. Skills activities, a women’s forum on sustainable communities, and self-defense training in partnership with the Iloilo Police Provincial Office are also lined up.
Anchored on the theme “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society,” the observance aligns with Proclamation No. 227, s. 1988, and is spearheaded nationwide by the Philippine Commission on Women.
The Provincial GAD Unit is encouraging the public to take part, underscoring that Women’s Month is not only a celebration but a continuing commitment to inclusive and client-centered governance.
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