DA Western Visayas celebrates Women’s Month through Talakayan ng Kababaihan sa Kabisayaan

In commemoration of National Women’s Month, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Western Visayas celebrated the empowerment of women through ‘Talakayan ng Kababaihan sa Kabisayaan’, a one-day program held on March 13, 2025 in Iloilo City that acknowledges women’s achievements and contributions to the agriculture and fisheries sector by providing a platform for women entrepreneurs in agriculture and fisheries, as well as for them to share their experiences, reflections, and success stories, and also to raise awareness about their health and well-being.

Over 50 representatives from different DA-attached agencies, such as National Food Authority, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, National Meat Inspection Service, Philippine Fiber Development Authority, Bureau of Plant Industry, Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation, and Sugar Regulatory Administration, have all gathered to acknowledge the significance of women’s roles in both agriculture and fisheries.

DA Western Visayas’ Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Zarlina B. Cuello underscored that this year’s Gender Equality and Inclusive Society is important because 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the Philippine Commission of Women, the 45th year of the Philippines’ signing the Convention on the Elimination of All Form of Discrimination Against Women, and 30 years since the introduction of Gender and Development Policy under the 1995 General Appropriations Act.

Cuello also highlighted that “WE for gender equality and inclusive society” has been the running theme for 5 years. She also pointed out that the sub-theme, Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas, acknowledges women’s roles in achieving a better future for the nation.

“This is a statement- a call as a response that aangat kita [babae] sa lahat nga sektor para sa bukas naton sa Bagong Pilipinas,” she said.

Jea Ferrer Derequito, a former nurse who transitioned into farming and owner of Lolo Vito’s Farm, and Dr. Maria Teresa G. Dy, a Medical Specialist IV of the Western Visayas Medical Center, who talked about the different health issues women faced and their causes, served as resource persons in the forum.

The participants also explored key gender domains in agriculture and fisheries in a workshop held after the forum. They exchanged insights on the differences between men and women regarding access to resources, practices, participation, knowledge, beliefs, perceptions, power, and decision-making. The activity highlighted the existing differences of each gender, thus reinforcing the need for inclusive policies to address the said challenges and promote a more unbiased environment.

Text by Je Erryl Shayne Esmao and Photos by Khrysma Dei Caldina/DA-RAFIS 6