By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Iloilo Provincial Government officially launched its National Women’s Month celebration with Tiendas Ilonggas, a trade fair showcasing products from women entrepreneurs, at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol Lobby on Monday, March 4.
Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. led the ceremonial opening and highlighted the province’s commitment to empowering women through entrepreneurship.
“We wanted to engage women in development. We look forward to strengthening our partnership together with women,” Defensor said.
Organized by the Provincial Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (LEDIP Center Iloilo Province), Tiendas Ilonggas features locally made products such as hablon (handwoven textiles), woven baskets, accessories, and food items.
The initiative provides a platform for women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to expand their market reach and grow their businesses.
In addition to Tiendas Ilonggas, various activities are scheduled throughout March to celebrate Women’s Month:
- March 3–7 – Tiendas Ilonggas Kick-Off Activity
- March 8 – Women-Led Province-Wide Limpyo Iloilo Kontra Dengue
- March 10 Onwards – Purple Offices Initiative
- March 7, 14, 21, 28 – Purple Fridays with Zumba
- March 14, 21, 28 – Women’s Health & Wellness Fridays
- March 21 – Job Fair for Women
- March 27 – Her Story: Babae, Umangat Ka Na Ba? Women’s Forum
The celebration is spearheaded by the Provincial Gender and Development (GAD Iloilo) Unit in collaboration with the Iloilo Provincial Employees & Community Multipurpose Cooperative (IPECMPC), the Association of Iloilo Provincial Government Employees (AIPGE), and other provincial offices.
This year’s theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” aligns with Republic Act 9710, or the Magna Carta of Women. The law promotes gender equality, empowers women, and ensures equitable access to resources and opportunities.
