Davao del Sur Hosts Vibrant Women's Month Culmination Event
On March 25, 2026, the Davao del Sur Coliseum was transformed into a vibrant hub of color, culture, and conviction as hundreds of women gathered for the culmination of this year's National Women's Month celebration. The event was organized by the Davao del Sur Provincial Government through its Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), bringing together representatives from local government units (LGUs), national government agencies, and the Kalipunan ng Liping Pilipina (Kalipi).
Showcasing Talent and Solidarity Through Competitions
The festivities featured a series of engaging competitions designed to highlight women's talents and foster solidarity. Participants showcased their skills in a modern ethnic dance contest and a colorful parade, which served as centerpieces of the celebration. To add energy and excitement to the gathering, the event also included raffle draws with prizes awarded both in cash and in kind, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day.
Platform for Addressing Women's Realities
Boardmember Marla Almendras of the province's first district delivered a powerful speech before participants, highlighting the everyday struggles and sacrifices faced by women in various roles. "We, women, face a lot of challenges; as mom, as lola. Sometimes we are even the breadwinners; we are the ones who give birth, as solo parents, we are the ones raising our children," she emphasized.
Her message reflected realities echoed across the Philippines, where women often navigate multiple responsibilities as caregivers, providers, and community leaders while confronting economic pressures such as rising fuel prices. Almendras offered practical solutions, encouraging households to plant vegetables, sweet potatoes, and other food crops to combat increasing costs. As a vegetarian herself, she also urged women to adopt healthier diets, stressing the importance of nutrition in sustaining both family welfare and productivity.
Leadership Support and Representation
Vice Governor Marc Cagas attended the program on behalf of Governor Yvonne Roña Cagas, expressing his appreciation for the influential role of women in his life, particularly citing his mother and wife. The event also saw the presence of prominent women leaders in local governance, including Board Members Shiela Cagas, Dyane Idulsa, and Marla Almendras, as well as Zorrah Valentin. Their participation underscored the growing involvement of women in leadership and governance roles within the community.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage and Excellence
Among the event's highlights was the Modern Ethnic Dance Competition, where the Municipality of Matanao emerged as champion. The winning performance skillfully blended cultural heritage with contemporary expression, symbolizing the evolving identity of Filipino women—firmly rooted in tradition while embracing forward-looking perspectives.
Women's Month and Nation-Building Framework
Celebrated annually throughout March, National Women's Month in the Philippines is anchored on Republic Act No. 6949, which designates March 8 as National Women's Day and the entire month as a period to recognize women's contributions to society. The Philippine Commission on Women spearheads these celebrations, promoting gender equality and women's empowerment across various sectors.
The observance aligns with global efforts such as International Women's Day and operates under frameworks like the Magna Carta of Women (Republic Act No. 9710), which upholds women's rights and participation in national development. In communities like Davao del Sur, these policies materialize through grassroots initiatives including livelihood programs, health campaigns, and leadership opportunities that enable women to actively contribute to economic growth and social progress.
