In recognition of the 2024 National Women’s Month, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga joins the nation in celebrating the invaluable contributions of women to society. This annual observance serves as a reminder of the milestones achieved in advancing women’s rights and empowerment while acknowledging the ongoing struggle for gender equality.

 

This year’s theme, “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan,” resonates deeply with DSWD Caraga’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and respect for all individuals, regardless of gender. The Agency emphasizes that the fight for equality extends beyond gender lines and encompasses the rights and dignity of every member of society.

 

Participation

 

DSWD Field Office Caraga staff headed by Protective Services Division (PSD) Chief Jessie Catherine B. Aranas participated in the Caraga Kick-off Activity for the 2024 Women’s Month celebration at Philippine Science High School Gymnasium, Butuan City — March 1, 2024

The activity was spearheaded by the Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) chaired by the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) Caraga.

CPD Undersecretary Lisa Grace Bersales, Ph.D. graced the activity and took the opportunity to talk about issues on population and the alarming cases of pregnancy on adolescence that should not be overlooked especially during the celebration of Women’s Month.

 

 

 

 

Korambusan

 

Field Office Caraga commenced its much-anticipated annual Women’s Month Celebration with a vibrant kick-off event dubbed “Korambusan”, March 4, 2024. The event, initiated by the field office, aims to honor and empower women in various sectors of society.

 

The festivities began solemnly with a heartfelt thanksgiving mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Felixberto Floreta, providing a reflective start for the workforce.

 

Following the mass, Regional Director Mari-Flor Dollaga delivered an inspiring opening message, highlighting the significance of the activity, recognizing and uplifting women’s contributions to society, and recognizing men and all genders of society who foster a safe space and opportunities for women and everyone – setting a tone of enthusiasm and empowerment.

 

 

 

 

 

Moreover, the workforce headed by the Regional Management Committee (RMANCOM) recited the Safe Spaces pledge and signed the commitment wall as a promise to continue to create a safe space for women and everyone in society.

One of the celebration’s highlights was the ribbon-cutting ceremony, officially signifying the opening of the booths prepared by the different field Office divisions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The “Korambusan” celebration manifests DSWD Field Office Caraga’s commitment to promoting inclusivity, empowerment, and social justice for all. As the month-long festivities unfold, the field office aims to continue fostering an environment where women are valued, respected, and empowered to thrive in all aspects of life.

 

International Women’s Day

 

DSWD Field Office Caraga marched into International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024 with a decisive run in Butuan City, today, March 8, 2024.

 

Spearheaded by the Empowerment and Reaffirmation of Paternal Abilities (ERPATS) Organization and the Men Opposed to Violence Everywhere (MOVE), the Field Office workforce, their families, and friends, participated in the activity.

In line with the Field Office’s Korambusan—the Run for Women is ERPATS MOVE’s initiative to demonstrate respect, love, and unwavering support for women and all genders that emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive society and investing in women’s empowerment.

 

Dialogues

 

In its capacity as the chair of the Regional Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (RIACAT-VAWC), DSWD Field Office Caraga addressed concerns surrounding the Women and Girls sector, aligning with the ongoing celebration of National Women’s Month 2024 – March 15, 2024.

 

RGADC Chairperson and Commission on Population and Development (CPD) Regional Director Alexander Makinano underscored the prevailing challenges faced by the sector, citing discrimination, abuses, and violence as ongoing issues that demand urgent attention.

 

Regional Women and Children Protection Desk (RWCPD) Chief Police Major Junalyn Suan highlighted a disturbing trend, noting a rise in cases involving women and girls throughout 2023 following the easing of pandemic restrictions. Major Suan urged community members to promptly report instances of abuse, assault, and violence, stressing the importance of swift action.

 

DSWD Caraga Protective Services Division (PSD) Chief Jessie Catherine B. Aranas shed light on the operational hurdles encountered in assisting victims at the grassroots level, emphasizing the need for trained focal persons to effectively address such challenges.

Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Officer-in-Charge of Promotion and Advocacy Division Edson Alijo outlined ongoing initiatives aimed at engaging both men and women in proactive modules designed to prevent and resolve gender-based issues.

 

Chief Aranas further emphasized the significance of WOMENtum—an institutionalized activity of the RIACAT-VAWC aimed at recognizing women’s contributions and promoting gender equality. As part of its outreach efforts, a Juana Matters free legal assistance booth is set up at SM Butuan City from March 18 to March 22, 2024.

 

Field Office Caraga expressed gratitude to the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga and SM City Butuan for providing a platform through Kapihan, enabling wider dissemination of the Agency’s advocacy to serve and protect, with media partners playing a crucial role in amplifying the message.

 

Women with Disabilities Day

 

In commemoration of Women with Disabilities Day, March 25, 2024, DSWD Field Office Caraga proudly acknowledges the exceptional dedication of the Angels in Red Vests. Despite encountering distinct challenges, these remarkable individuals have exhibited unwavering resolve in shattering barriers and making significant contributions towards realizing the Agency’s collective objectives.

Let us all take a moment to honor the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of women with disabilities everywhere. Let’s actively strive to create inclusive spaces and opportunities for them to thrive because their presence not only enriches a workforce or a community but also highlights the importance of inclusivity and diversity in creating a more equitable society.

 

WOMENtum

 

Led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, hosts WOMENtum 2024 in Butuan City—March 26, 2024.

 

This year’s event focuses on the Orientation on RA 11596 and Administrative Procedure on Sexual Harassment to RIACAT-VAWC Members. It aims to inform and empower all members of the committee about these laws, promoting the transformation of gender norms and culture towards a more inclusive society. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to acknowledge exceptional women, particularly those involved in combating trafficking and gender-based violence (GBV) within the region, who are #JuanaBidaKaSaCaraga.

WOMENtum is a series of activities organized by the Regional Inter-Agency Committee against Trafficking and Violence against Women and their Children (RIACAT-VAWC Caraga). Established in 2018, it seeks to empower and recognize remarkable women, especially those who are fighting against trafficking and gender-based violence (GBV) within the region.

 

Moving Forward with the Cause

 

DSWD Caraga firmly believes that true equality is achieved when everyone, regardless of gender, is empowered to embrace their full potential and live authentically. These principles include creating spaces where men feel encouraged to express their emotions without stigma, advocating for the rights and respect of the LGBTQIA+ community, and ensuring that women continue to thrive in all aspects of life.

 

DSWD Caraga underscores the importance of collective action in advancing the cause of equality. The Agency encourages everyone to join DSWD in advocating for the exact reason for a harmonious society where love and respect foster a peaceful environment where everyone’s rights are honored.

 

As an Agency of social welfare and development, DSWD Caraga remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusivity in all its programs and initiatives. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication, the Field Office strives to ensure everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to live a life of dignity and fulfillment.

 

In celebrating National Women’s Month 2024, DSWD Caraga reaffirms its pledge to work towards a future where equality is a dream and a tangible reality for all. Together, let us continue to champion the rights and dignity of every person, paving the way for a more just, equitable, and harmonious society.