South Cotabato Celebrates Women’s Month with Empowering Events

With an exciting array of activities, South Cotabato concluded its Women’s Month celebration, showcasing the fortitude, tenacity, and unwavering resolve of women across the province. The month-long events, which focused on teamwork to promote gender equality, were led by the Office of the Provincial Population Officer (OPPO) in cooperation with important stakeholders.

A Gender and Development (GAD) Symposium specifically designed for tricycle drivers and DAD-VFF officials and members kicked off the celebration on March 1, 2025. This event, which was arranged in collaboration with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), was centered around the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act (RA 9262) and the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313), also known as the “Bawal Bastos Law.” This program recognized how important men are in fostering gender awareness and creating safe spaces for women.

The highly anticipated iJuanaRUN Fun Run Season 2 took place in South Cotabato on March 8th in honor of International Women’s Day, drawing 1,998 participants. The run represented women’s tenacity in conquering obstacles and was more than just a celebration of health and wellbeing. As part of the province’s efforts to support women, last year’s event proceeds helped ten couples in conflict, and this year’s initiative helped women who had recently been separated.

The South Cotabato Economic and Investments Promotion Center’s Executive Order, which encouraged local businesses to give women’s products discounts, was a noteworthy highlight of this year’s celebration. This program further demonstrated the province’s commitment to developing laws that meaningfully support and empower women.

The iJuana Sayawit competition, which featured a lively exhibition of artistic expression through dance and music, took center stage as the celebration came to a close on March 13. The iJuana Search, which showcased women’s abilities, contributions, and skills in a variety of fields, came next. These events not only showcased talent but also reinforced the province’s commitment to equality and female empowerment.

Beyond the celebrations, South Cotabato’s continued dedication to promoting women’s rights was demonstrated by the Women’s Month events. The Office of the Provincial Population Officer continued to be at the vanguard of these endeavors, spearheading programs that encouraged inclusivity and sparked change. To stay informed about gender advocacy efforts, the public was urged to follow the Provincial Population Office South Cotabato’s official page.

By implementing these significant projects, South Cotabato made it possible for all women to prosper and cleared the path for a more empowered and inclusive future. Juana, angat ka!