With the aim to celebrate the various accomplishments and milestones of diverse women as well as champion gender equality and women empowerment, Sorsogon State University – Office of the Gender and Development (SorSU GAD) officially culminated its celebration of 2024 National Women’s Month through a closing program, highlighting Toastmasters Speakathon for Women activity, on March 25, 2024, at the SorSU Audio-Visual Hall, Sorsogon City Campus.
Bearing the sub-theme, “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan!” the event began with the welcome remarks and theme introduction from Ms. Glady Joy Mella (GAD Coordinator, Sorsogon City Campus).
“This National Women’s Month, let us recommit ourselves to the cause of gender equality. Let us stand together as allies, advocates, and agents of change working hand-in-hand to build a world where every individual has the opportunity to strive. Together, we can create a future where equality is not just a dream, but a reality for all.”
SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, likewise graced the event and delivered an inspirational message to the attendees, particularly the SorSU women employees & students, noting that as an advocate of women empowerment and gender equality, it is always a great privilege for her to speak in significant occasions for all Filipino women.
With the theme “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patunayan,” this year’s celebration emphasizes the accomplishments and recognition that Filipinas have achieved in our Philippine society and even abroad. In recent decades, women are becoming more visible in professions, workplaces, and institutions that were previously exclusive for and dominated by men.
“What I wish to convey to you all is that women like us have a lot of opportunities to reach and achieve positions of acclaim yet great responsibilities in our workplaces and the society. Look around you – in the academic, political, scientific, professional, social, and commercial spheres. Women do not only participate and contribute in these areas but also lead. We are not in these positions simply because of our beauty and overwhelming charm – but because, like men, we also have the ability to lead and accomplish our jobs in the best way possible.
“As a final note, I wish to remind and impress on all women these words: ikaw ay babae – hindi babae lamang. We are women and have dignity – we must celebrate who we are and always be proud of ourselves.”
Notably, Part II of the culminating program featured the Toastmasters Speakathon for Women, which began with the Overview of Toastmasters & Pathways Program by the Toastmaster of the Day, AD Nino Kare, CL. Subsequently, this was followed by prepared speeches from Pres. Ferdous Ahmed (Naga Toastmaster Club President) and Toastmaster (TM) Atty. Sylki Cruel Balagtas (Albay Lawyers Toastmasters Club), particularly international speech and humorous speech, respectively.
Meanwhile, TM Roland Bongais (Mayon Toastmasters Club) led the Table Topics Portion, comprising impromptu speeches relative to Women’s Month, which was actively participated in and performed by KTMC Members as well as participants and guests.
Further, DTM Melody Grace Leona (Kasurog Toastmasters Club) and AD Atty. Allan Badiola (PM4, Mayon Toastmasters Club) provided the respective evaluation and feedback on prepared speakers and table topics speakers, while TM Ma. Cristina Ditan (KMTC) delivered the Timer’s Report.
Following the high-spirited speeches during the Toastmasters Speakathon for Women portion, Part III, on the other hand, highlighted the awarding of the Photo Contest and Video Advocacy Campaign.
The culminating activity concluded with a closing message from Ms. Riche Justine P. Duran (Director, Gender and Development), extending her profound appreciation to all key individuals instrumental in the success of the event.
“Let’s carry forth the lessons learned, the connections made, and the aspirations ignited. Let’s remain steadfast in the commitment to breaking barriers, challenges, stereotypes and creating or giving opportunities for all… Happy Women’s Month!”
SorSU, a gender-sensitive and gender-responsive academic community, fully supports the activities and events that foster and advocate for gender equality and women empowerment. Happy Women’s Month, everyone! (SorSU PIO)