RSU celebrates National Women's Month 2024

March 8, 2024 - Romblon State University (RSU) kicked off its celebration of the National Women's Month carrying the theme "WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society," and the subtheme “Lipunang patas sa bagong Pilipinas, kakayahan ng kababaihan, patutunayan!”

This year’s celebration of the National Women’s Month highlights the significant contributions of women to society and the goal to raise awareness on the issues and concerns related to women empowerment, inclusivity, and gender equality towards a transformed Philippines.

The event commenced with a vibrant parade around town of all teaching and non-teaching staff.

Participants wore violet shirts, a color symbolizing the support of the institution for the Women’s Month.

After the parade, the participants proceeded to the Audio-Visual Room for the celebration of the Eucharistic Mass, with Rev. Fr. Ranulfo F. Fabul, Parish Priest Shrine of St. Vincent Ferrer, Odiongan, Romblon.

Rev. Fabul expressed his appreciation and commendation for all the women and their indispensable value in building families, and transforming houses into homes with their love, strength, compassion, and affection.

The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of RSU President Dr. Merian Catajay Mani, who delivered an inspiring message about women empowerment and inclusivity.

“Our goal is not to create imbalance where women dominate the men, but an equilibrium in the society in which everyone, regardless of gender, continuously support one another, lift each other up, and face the challenges of the modern world by leveraging diversity, cooperating with open-minded acceptance of one another, and utilizing our capabilities and unique talents to conquer modern-day adversities,” said Pres. Mani in her speech.

A video message from Atty. Khay Anne Magundayao Borlado, deputy director of management services for Philippine Commission on Women, was also shown during the event.

In her speech, she emphasized the data behind the gender disparities in the world and in the Philippines, the challenges that women and children face in the society, as well as the proposed solutions for bridging those gaps to transform the society for equality and inclusivity.

The program also featured the introduction of the RSU Unit Ambassadresses, who will promote gender and development advocacies within their respective units.

The Panel of Judges consisted of Dr. Mark Calimbo, Dean of Instruction, Abraham Cuevas, Administrative Supervisor, and Turner Evon De Torres of the Quality Assurance Unit.

These judges assessed the candidates based on their speeches, their placards bearing their advocacies, and their performance throughout the program.

Mr. De Torres announced the GAD ambassadresses, as follows:

• Ambassadress of Hope: Jessa Soledad, Laboratory Science High School

• Ambassadress of Grace: Alyssa Kate F. Deoso, Graduate Education and Professional Studies

• Ambassadress of Empowerment: Novie Gallos, College of Education

• Women's Ambassadress of 2024: Cielo Amor M. Ferrancullo, College of Arts and Sciences

RSU Ambassadresses received sashes, gifts, bouquets of flowers, and crowns as prizes, awarded by the University top officials and the judges.

The closing message was delivered by Ms. Carolyn D. Fetalver, the Director for Gender and Development and the chief organizer of the month's event.

The RSU's celebration of the National Women's Month is a testament to the university's commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusivity.

The month-long celebration at RSU features various activities that aim to appreciate RSUvian women.