�����Թ�

09 MARCH 2025 — In solidarity with the global community, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) proudly joins the nation in commemorating National Women’s Month this March and International Women’s Day today, March 8, 2025. A series of activities across the country’s port management offices (PMOs) underscores the agency’s unwavering commitment to empowering women and fostering gender equality, aligned with this year’s theme: “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas.”

Across PPA’s 25 PMOs, various programs have already been launched to mark the month-long observance. From educational forums and cultural showcases to wellness programs and advocacy campaigns, these initiatives reflect PPA’s recognition of women’s invaluable contributions to the maritime and port sectors.

At PMO Eastern Leyte/Samar, the kick-off event pushed through despite��inclement weather, highlighted by a trivia game and the distribution of tokens to women employees. At PMO Misamis Occidental/Ozamiz, women employees led the March 3 flag-raising ceremony, which featured a special video rendition of the Lupang Hinirang paying tribute to notable women in Philippine history.

Several PMOs also collaborated with their respective local government units (LGUs). In PMO Masbate, employees participated in the National Women’s Month Program at the Masbate Provincial Capitol Grounds, followed by a motorcade advocating for women’s rights and gender equality. Similarly, PMO Agusan joined the region-wide kick-off at Caraga State University, taking part in a unity motorcade alongside fellow government agencies and civil society organizations.

Meanwhile, PMO Davao gathered women employees for a Zumba session and social event following the kick-off ceremony at the open grounds of Operations Building. In PMO Western Leyte/Biliran, activities for passengers included the distribution of women’s kits, the launch of Juana’s Corner in��passenger terminals, a Wall of Quotes featuring inspiring messages from empowered women, and free massage therapy services rendered by persons with disabilities (PWDs).

In PMO Palawan, the celebration blended culture and community involvement through the Kadiwa program, which showcased produce from women farmers. Female employees also harvested vegetables from the Gulayan sa Pantalan project and planted fruit-bearing seedlings as part of the port’s edible landscaping initiative. The port also opened priority lanes for female passengers and distributed educational materials on women’s rights laws under the #GADtoKnow campaign.

At PMO Lanao del Norte/Iligan, a vibrant kick-off program gathered employees, partner agencies, and stakeholders for a morning of advocacy and celebration. The event featured a pledge of commitment, inspirational messages, a Zumba session, and the launch of “Takbo Para Kay Juana,” a fun run promoting gender equality and inclusivity.

In PMO Zamboanga del Norte, employees and on-the-job trainees organized a charity drive, distributing purple mini bags filled with travel essentials to female passengers. The celebration also featured a film showing highlighting women-centered narratives, as well as a Zumba session for employees.

This year’s celebration marks the third year of the 2023-2028 National Women’s Month Campaign banner, “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society.” The slogan serves both as a call to action and a positive affirmation that achieving gender equality is a collective responsibility, with WE representing both Women and Everyone—individuals, institutions, and agencies working hand-in-hand to uplift and empower women.

While the 2024 Global Gender Gap Report by the World Economic Forum (WEF) ranks the Philippines as Asia’s most gender-equal country, the nation’s drop from 16th to 25th place globally underscores the need for sustained and intensified efforts to close the gender gap. Through its 2025 Women’s Month celebration, �����Թ�renews its commitment to ensuring that every Juana—particularly within the maritime and ports sector—has the opportunity to contribute to building a Bagong Pilipinas, where gender equality is not only a goal, but a lived reality. ��###