Strengthening women’s voices and economic participation, the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office V – Bicol Region through the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), conducted a Women’s Month advocacy and livelihood seminar for 4Ps Parent Leaders in the Municipality of Milaor, Camarines Sur.

Anchored on the theme, “WE for Gender Equality: Empowering Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program Parent Leaders on Women’s Rights and Economic Participation,” the activity was organized by the Municipal Operations Office of Milaor in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Milaor. The one-day activity gathered Parent Leaders for learning sessions focused on women’s rights, gender awareness, and economic empowerment.

One of the highlights of the activity was the inspiring testimony of a graduated Pantawid beneficiary, Ms. Arlene Cabase, who shared her journey from being a program beneficiary to becoming a successful entrepreneur managing four food stalls with 61 employees. Her story reflected the positive impact of government interventions in helping families achieve self-sufficiency. She shared that through the support of the program, combined with hard work and perseverance, their family was able to gradually build a stable livelihood.

During the seminar, the Philippine National Police discussed Project MARIKAS (Maging Alisto, Rigmát ang Isip Kontra Abusong Sekswal) and Republic Act 9262, emphasizing the importance of awareness, vigilance, and legal protection in addressing violence against women and children. A Gender and Development (GAD) Situationer was also presented to provide insights on gender-related issues affecting 4Ps beneficiaries and to promote gender-responsive community initiatives.

Meanwhile, the DSWD Sustainable Livelihood Program – Bicol shared strategies on enhancing livelihood opportunities for 4Ps women, highlighting the importance of capacity-building, access to resources, and sustained support systems to help women achieve economic independence.

The activity highlighted the continuing efforts of DSWD Bicol in empowering women under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, not only as program beneficiaries but as community leaders and partners in development.

Through initiatives like this, DSWD Bicol continues to promote gender equality, strengthen community participation, and support sustainable livelihood opportunities in celebration of National Women’s Month.