𝐌𝐀𝐘𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐏𝐄 𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐍𝐒 𝐒𝐀𝐅𝐄 𝐒𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐄𝐒 𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐙𝐀𝐌𝐁𝐎𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐀 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘

May 16, 2025 | City Hall, Conference Room

Today, May 16, 2025, a significant milestone was marked in Zamboanga City with the ceremonial signing of City Ordinance No. 719, also known as the Safe Spaces Ordinance. The event was held at the Conference Hall of City Hall, highlighting the city government’s strong commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all Zamboangueños.

The ordinance was officially signed by Mayor John M. Dalipe, in the presence of key city officials, stakeholders, and advocates of safe public spaces. This legislation aims to strengthen local policies against all forms of gender-based harassment in streets, public places, and online platforms—aligning with the national Safe Spaces Act.

The ordinance was principally authored by Hon. Al-Jihan R. Edding, whose advocacy and leadership played a vital role in shaping the policy. Through her initiative, the City Council took a firm step toward addressing issues of public safety, dignity, and respect across all communities in Zamboanga.

Special recognition is also extended to the Safe Spaces Ordinance Technical Working Group for their invaluable support, research, and dedication throughout the drafting and consultation process. Their collaborative efforts ensured the ordinance was comprehensive, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the people.

As we say, junto-junto kita empuja el bienestar de todo, para na inclusivo cambio, progreso y desarollo Ciudad de Zamboanga! Para na igualdad de genero! ⛵

#safespacesordinance #RA11313 #GADvocates #safespaceszamboanga #bawalbastossazc

𝐒𝐏 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐥 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐎𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐙𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲

May 5, 2025, | Sangguniang Panlungsod

During its 19th Regular Session held on May 5, 2025, the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Zamboanga City officially approved on third and final reading the Proposed Ordinance No. 2023-47, also known as the Safe Spaces Ordinance. The ordinance aims to provide stronger safeguards against all forms of gender-based harassment in public spaces, schools, workplaces, and online platforms. 

The approval of this ordinance is a testament to the City’s ongoing commitment to uphold the rights and dignity of every individual, particularly women and other vulnerable sectors. With this legislative measure, Zamboanga City takes a firm stand in promoting inclusivity, respect, and accountability in both public and private settings. The Safe Spaces Ordinance aligns with national efforts to eliminate gender-based sexual harassment and cultivate a culture of safety and equality. 

Before reaching this final stage, the ordinance underwent a rigorous review process within the appropriate committees, marked by extensive consultations, deliberations, and revisions to ensure that the measure addresses concerns of the community. The dedication of the Committee on Women, Children and Family Welfare, led by Hon. Edding, the GAD Services of the Office of the City Mayor, and the entire Technical Working Group (TWG), was instrumental in refining the ordinance and advocating for its timely passage. 

The enactment of this ordinance signals a significant step forward in the local government’s legislative agenda, reinforcing Zamboanga City’s role as a champion of progressive and responsive governance. The Sangguniang Panlungsod, through this initiative, has once again demonstrated its resolve to protect every individual from sexual harassment and to foster a safe, respectful environment for all Zamboangueños.

As we say, junto-junto kita empuja el buen estar de todo, para na inclusivo cambio, progreso y desarollo Ciudad de Zamboanga! Para na igualdad de genero! ⛵

#SafeSpacesOrdinance #RA11313 #GADvocates #SafeSpacesZamboanga #BawalBastosSaZC

PUBLIC HEARING ON CHILD WELFARE CODE OF ZAMBOANGA CITY HELD

May 2, 2025, | Weightlifting Training Center, JFE Memorial Sports Complex.

The Committee on Ordinances and Resolutions and the Committee on Children, Women and Family Welfare of the Sangguniang Panlungsod successfully conducted a Public Hearing on Friday, May 2, 2025, at the Weightlifting Training Center, JFE Memorial Sports Complex.

The activity focused on gathering feedback and insights on the Proposed Ordinance No. 2025-13, “The 2025 Revised Child Welfare Code of Zamboanga City” (Second Draft), authored by Hon. Al-Jihan R. Edding.

The hearing was participated in by the GAD Services of the Office of the City Mayor, along with other stakeholders, who greatly contributed valuable perspectives on child and family welfare.

As we say, continua kita empuja el buen estar de todo los generos, para na mas inclusivo cambio, para na progreso y desarollo del ciudad de Zamboanga. 

Para na igualdad de genero!

#ZamboangaCity #ChildWelfareCode2025 #PublicHearing #SangguniangPanlungsod #GADInAction #ForTheChildren #CommunityEngagement

Creating a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and safe — affirming our commitment to inclusivity, protection, and respect for all.

April 23, 2025 | CHRMO Conference Room

The Gender and Development Services convened a meeting for the Technical Writeshop on the "Safe Spaces Ordinance of Zamboanga City" held on April 23, 2025 at CHRMO Conference Room, Zamboanga City.

The passage of RA No. 11313, or the Safe Spaces Act (SSA), broadened the law to cover all forms of harassment — verbal, non-verbal, and physical — in both public and private spaces, protecting all individuals regardless of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression, from gender-based violence and discrimination. 

In order for the City Government of Zamboanga to effectively perform and carry out its mandates, the City Government of Zamboanga shall pass an Enabling Ordinance implementing and enforcing the provisions of R.A. 11313 and its IRR. 

Key stakeholder were invited during the Technical Writeshop for the aforementioned ordinance, helping to shape the direction of the city toward a safe, empowered and inclusive society. 

As we say, junto-junto kita empuja el buen estar de todo, para na inclusivo cambio, progreso y desarollo Ciudad de Zamboanga! Para na igualdad de genero! ⛵

#SafeSpacesOrdinance #RA11313  #GADvocates

Planting the Seeds of Awareness: A Seminar on Child Rights. 

April 8, 2025 | Putik Central School, Zamboanga City

The Gender and Development Services through its Alternate City GAD Focal, Mr. Cyril Ganob provided technical assistance to Putik Central School Faculty and Intermediate Students held on April 8, 2025 at Putik Central School, Zamboanga City.

The Capacity Building organized by the institution aims to provide awareness to its faculty and students on Republic Act 7610 - a law that provides for stronger deterrence and special protection against child abuse, exploitation and discrimination in the Philippines and RA 11313, the law that prohibits gender-based sexual harassment in public, online, and workplace spaces in the Philippines.

As we say, junto-junto kita empuja el buen estar de todo, para na inclusivo cambio, progreso y desarollo Ciudad de Zamboanga! Para na igualdad de genero! ⛵

#GADvocates

INCLUSIVE FUTURES: A Job Fair for ALL 🌈❤️

March 27, 2025 | KCC Mall de Zamboanga

The Gender and Development Services, joins the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in support of INCLUSIVE FUTURES: A Job Fair for ALL. A culminating activity of QWARTA Career Development and Professional Skills Workshop of LGBTIA+ Individuals in Zamboanga City Program of Mindanao Pride and Mujer LGBT Organization along with its other partners. 

In his special message, Mr. Cyril Ganob shared that recognizing the persistent barriers faced by women and marginalized genders in accessing employment, which are often compounded by systemic inequalities - it is our responsibility to challenge these injustices and advocate for policies and practices that promote fairness and equity. Together, we can create a future where public employment are not just a pathway to jobs, but a catalyst for gender equality and social justice. Let us stand in solidarity, championing the rights of all individuals to work in an environment free from discrimination and bias.

We congratulation all our QWARTA Graduates along with the other Job Seekers! We also congratulate Public Employment Services Office, Mujer LGBT Organization and Mindanao Pride in unlocking opportunities and building Inclusive Futures.

As we say, junto-junto kita empuja el buen estar de todo, para na inclusivo cambio, progreso y desarollo Ciudad de Zamboanga! Para na igualdad de genero! ⛵

#2025  #GADvocates #GADZamboanga #QWARTA #PESO #mindanaopride #mujerlgbt #JobFair #InclusiveFutures

Together, we can make the world a better place, tree by tree! 🌳

OCEACR's TREE GROWING ACTIVITY

March 15, 2025 | Sitio Murok, Pasonanca.

The Gender and Development Services of the City Mayor's Office participated in the Tree Growing Activity of Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources held March 15, 2025 at Sitio Murok, Pasonanca.

Junto-junto kita empuja el buen estar de todo, para na inclusivo cambio, progreso y desarollo Ciudad de Zamboanga! Para na igualdad de genero! ⛵

#2025  #GADvocates #GADZamboanga

Running for a cause, racing for change. Every step is a step closer to making a difference.

March 29, 2025 | Tetuan, Zamboanga City

The Gender and Development Services joined Sangguniang Kabataan of Barangay Tetuan's Corre Jovenes 2.0 - Advocacy Run held saturday, March 29, 2025, as one of the Advocacy Stations.

We thank all the participanting runners and congratulate the Sangguniang Kabataan of Tetuan led by SK National President, Commissioner CJ Dalipe for the successful conduct of the event. 

Junto-junto kita empuja el buen estar de todo, para na inclusivo cambio, progreso y desarollo Ciudad de Zamboanga! Para na igualdad de genero! ⛵

#2025  #GADvocates #GADZamboanga #CorreJovenes2 #AdvocacyRun

Empowered women are unstoppable forces of change. 

March 28. 2025 | Talisayan, Zamboanga City

In celebration of 2025 National Women's Month, the Century Pacific Food Inc. invited the Gender and Development Services  through Communications Officer Rizza Joy Albar, as a resource person to talk about women empowerment, equality and health. They aim to raise awareness on relevant issues and concerns on women. 

Thank you to CPFI for making us a part of their Women's Month Celebration. Happy National Women's Month!

Be one with us in this campaign! Vene ya y junto-junto kita celebra! 

#WEcanbeEquALL #EmpoweredMujeres #WomensMonth2024 #GADinAction

Women’s Month is a time to recognize the power, passion, and perseverance of women who inspire change and shape the world.

March 25, 2025 |  Brent Hospital and Colleges Inc

The Gender and Development Services through its Communications Officer, Ms. Rizza Joy Albar, took part in the National Women's Month Celebration of Brent Hospital and Colleges Inc. held on March 25, 2025, this city. 

They honored women's great contributions through art and literature. Ms. Rizza Joy was tasked to be one of the esteemed judges of the following competitions: Essay Writing Contest, FB Reels Content and, Poster Making Contest. These allowed the students of Brent Hospital and Colleges Inc. to unleash their skills and talents in their respective areas of expertise. 

We congratulate everyone who participated in the aforementioned competitions and the Gender and Development Office of Brent Hospital and Colleges Inc. for the successful conduct of the event. We salute you for giving importance to this advocacy of Gender Equality.  

As we say, junto-junto kita empuja el buen estar de todo, para na inclusivo cambio, progreso y desarollo Ciudad de Zamboanga! Para na igualdad de genero! ⛵

#2025  #GADvocates #GADZamboanga #BrentHospitalandCollegesIncorporated

The Committee on Ordinances and Resolutions of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, along with the Committees on Children, Women and Family Welfare, and Justice and Human Rights held its Public Hearing on March 11, 2025 at Weightlifting Training Center, Joaquin F. Enriquez Jr. Memorial Sports Complex, Zamboanga City. 

March 11, 2025 | Joaquin F. Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex (Grandstand)

Gender and Development Services through its City GAD Focal, Mr. Wilfredo Aporongao was invited to attend the aforementioned hearing to share his observations, comments and/or feedback from a GAD Lens on the Proposed Ordinance no. 2023-47 entitled "An Enabling Ordinance Implementing and Enforcing the Provisions of Republic Act No. 11313, Otherwise known as the "Safe Spaces Act" in the City of Zamboanga and Prescribing Penalties for Certain Acts or Omissions Violative of this Ordinance, and other Purposes, sponsored by Hon. Al-Jihan R. Edding and Hon. Lilibeth M. Nuño. 

Let’s keep pushing forward and making progress! Together, we can continue advocating for policies that create lasting change and drive a more inclusive, equitable future for all. 

As we say, junto-junto kita empuja el buen estar de todo, para na inclusivo cambio, progreso y desarollo Ciudad de Zamboanga! Para na igualdad de genero! ⛵

#GADvocates #SafeSpaces #PublicHearing #GADperspective #GADLens

Marching forward in unity and pride, honoring the women who inspire change and pave the way for the future. 💪💜

March 07, 2025 | Brent Hospital to Joaquin F. Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex

It as an overwhelming participation for our Marcha de Las Mujeres: A Puple Walk Campaign for a Cause, in celebration of the 2025 National Women's Month held March 7, 2025 from Brent Hospital to Joaquin F. Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex, Zamboanga City. 

The parade was enjoined by the different Women's Organizations in the City, City Government Offices, National Agencies, the Security Forces, Schools, Community-Based Organizations and, Non-Government Agencies. 

It concluded with a program at Joaquin F. Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex with the Solidarity Messages of Mayor John Dalipe, Vice Mayor Pin-Pin Pareja, SK National President CJ Dalipe, GAD Vice Chairperson Cons. Al-Jihann Edding, and LCW Zamboanga City Chapter President Lilia Nuño. 

Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas!💜 

#WEcanbeEquALL #EmpoweredMujeres #WomensMonth2025 #GADinAction  #MarchaDeLasMujeres2025

Training today for the safety of tomorrow: Self-Defense Training for the City Government Employees 

March 07, 2025 | Memorial Sports Complex (Grand Stand)

As part of the Annual Celebration of National Women's Month, the Gender and Development Services in partnership with Sports Development Division headed by Fuerza de Mujeres 2025 Awardee, Dr. Cecile Atilano, conducted Self-Defense Training held March 7, 2025 at Muay Thai Gym, Joaquin F. Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex (Grand Stand), this city.

This activity is also being conducted by other member agencies of the Regional GAD Council IX. This initiative aims to equip the members of the City Government, especially its female employees, with essential self-defense skills to promote safety and empowerment.

We congratulate all participating employees for their enthusiasm and commitment during the activity. We also thank the Sports Development Division and the instructors for sharing their skills and expertise, helping the women and allies by empowering them with the confidence and skills to protect what matters most.

Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas!

Happy National Women's Month Juanas! 💜

#WEcanbeEquALL #GADInAction #selfdefense #NationalWomensMonth

Empowering Youth, Defending Rights: A Future of Equality and Justice - Observance of Human Rights Day 2024

December 10, 2024

Garden Orchid Hotel

The Gender and Development Services in partnership with the Commission of Human Rights IX, conducted the Observance of Human Rights Day 2024 with the Theme: Empowering Youth, Defending Rights: A Future of Equality and Justice, inviting representatives from the Sangguniang Kabataan of the different barangays in the city, held last December 10, 2024 at Garden Orchid Hotel.

The activity higlighted the crucial role young people play in promoting and defending human rights. This is part of the Human Rights Education and Advocacy Campaign for this years National Human Rights Consciousness Week, anchored in the theme, "Pagtataguyod sa Sangkatauhan, Pagpapanatili ng Dignidad, Pagtatanggol sa Karapatan at Pagsulong sa Kapayapaan.

We thank our Sangguniang Kabataan Representative for being with us in this cause and actively participating during the sessions.

Empowering Youth, Defending Rights: A Future of Equality and Justice - Observance of Human Rights Day 2024

December 10, 2024

Garden Orchid Hotel

The Gender and Development Services in partnership with the Commission of Human Rights IX, conducted the Observance of Human Rights Day 2024 with the Theme: Empowering Youth, Defending Rights: A Future of Equality and Justice, inviting representatives from the Sangguniang Kabataan of the different barangays in the city, held last December 10, 2024 at Garden Orchid Hotel.

The activity higlighted the crucial role young people play in promoting and defending human rights. This is part of the Human Rights Education and Advocacy Campaign for this years National Human Rights Consciousness Week, anchored in the theme, "Pagtataguyod sa Sangkatauhan, Pagpapanatili ng Dignidad, Pagtatanggol sa Karapatan at Pagsulong sa Kapayapaan.

We thank our Sangguniang Kabataan Representative for being with us in this cause and actively participating during the sessions.

Walk for a Cause - 18 Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women and Children

November 30, 2024

Paseo del Mar to Zamboanga Central School

In the annual 18 Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women and Children, the City Social Welfare and Development Office - Zamboanga City in partnership with Gender and Development of Zamboanga City spearheaded the WALK FOR A CAUSE AGAINST VAW, held November 30, 2024 from Paseo del Mar to Zamboanga City Central School. The activity was participated by Women Organizations of the different barangays, including Solo Parents and LGBT Sector. It also had participation from National Government Agencies, Security Sector and City Government of Zamboanga.

The nationwide yearly observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW from November 25 to December 12 – is calling for unity among all genders and sectors of society to finally put an end to violence in all its forms.

With the 2022-2027 recurring campaign theme, “UNiTEd for a VAW-free Philippines” and its 2024 sub-theme, “VAW Bigyang Wakas, Ngayon na ang Oras!” the PCW highlights the urgency of the advocacy in line with the commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Anti-VAWC Act of 2004 (RA 9262).

The 2024 campaign remains aligned with the United Nations’ “UNiTE by 2030 to End VAW” initiative, of which the Philippines is one of the 51 charter members. UNiTE is a multiyear effort that calls on duty-bearers, civil society and non-governmental organizations, the private sector, media entities, the youth, and UN member states to join forces in addressing the global pandemic of violence against women and girls. (pcw.gov.ph)

The activity concluded with a program at the end point of the walk, Zamboanga Central School, that includes messages of support from City Mayor John M. Dalipe, City Vice Mayor Josephine Pin-pin Pareja, Concilor Al-Jihann Edding, Councilor Vino Guingona, District 2 Representative Cong Mannix Dalipe and LCW President Lilia Nuno.

We are one with the campaign. VAW Bigyang-Wakas, Ngayon na ang Oras!

           #CARE Culminating Activity

October 31, 2024

Grand Astoria Hotel

Celebrating strength, resilience, and unity! Our culminating activity shines a light on compassion, advocacy, recovery, and education. Together, we are stronger when we care!

The Gender and Development Services of the City Mayor's Office together with the Mindanao Breast Cancer Support and Empowerment Association would like to thank all the supportive CARE Partners for being with us in the celebration of Pink October - Breast Cancer Awareness Month this year. It would not be this successful without your commitment and dedication in this advocacy.

Free Breast Screening and Consultation

October 25, 2024

PNP Regional Office IX

In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the City Government of Zamboanga through the Gender and Development Services of the Office of the City Mayor, Office of the City Health and in partnership with Mindanao Breast Cancer Support and Empowerment Association, Ciudad Medical Zamboanga and West Metro Cancer Center conducted a Free Breast Screening and Consultation held October 25, 2024 at 9:00 AM - 12 NN held at PNP Regional Office IX, Mercedes, this city.

Our utmost appreciation and salute to all the brave women who submitted for the breast screening.

Together we are STRONGER when we CARE! Let us celebrate Pink October and continue to foster an atmosphere of care and support for everyone who struggled and those who continue to fight during this Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

#CARE #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth2024

#PinkOctober2024 #pinkoctoberzc

Media Information Caravan - EMediaMo Guesting during the Sisterly Yours Program

October 18, 2024

EMedia Broadcasting Station, Divisoria

In its mission in increasing the awareness on Breast Cancer, the Gender and Development Services in partnership with Mindanao Breast Cancer Support and Empowerment Association and West Metro Medical Center had a Media Information Caravan at EMedia Mo's Sisterly Yours Program. The office and organization were represented by the City GAD Focal Person, Wilfredo Aporongao together with MBCSEA representative, Ma'am Bernardita Gallardo, and Dr. Ella Mae C. Lim, Radiation Oncologist of West Metro Medical Center.

We thank EMEdia Mo Broadcasting Station for being with us in this advocacy!

Together we are STRONGER when we CARE! Let us celebrate Pink October and continue to foster an atmosphere of care and support for everyone who struggled and those who continue to fight during this Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

#CARE #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth2024

#PinkOctober2024 #pinkoctoberzc

Free Breast Screening and Consultation for Persons Deprived of Liberty at BJMP Female Dormitory

October 11, 2024

BJMP Female Dormitory

In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the City Government of Zamboanga through the Gender and Development Services of the Office of the City Mayor, Office of the City Health and in partnership with Mindanao Breast Cancer Support and Empowerment Association, Ciudad Medical Zamboanga and West Metro Cancer Center kicks off the Free Breast Screening and Consultation held October 11, 2024 at 9:00 AM - 12 NN held at BJMP Female Dormitory.

Our utmost appreciation and salute to all the brave women who submitted for the breast screening.

Together we are STRONGER when we CARE! Let us celebrate Pink October and continue to foster an atmosphere of care and support for everyone who struggled and those who continue to fight during this Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

#CARE #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth2024

#PinkOctober2024 #pinkoctoberzc

#CARE to Walk Campaign Pink Parade

October 4, 2024

City Fire Station to Plaza Pershing

The City Government of Zamboanga through the Gender and Development Services spearheaded this year's Pink Parade: #CARE to Walk Campaign in celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024.

The activity gathered LGU Offices, National Government Agencies, Non-Government Orgranizations, Schools and Barangays to participate in raising awareness for breast cancer.

Together we are STRONGER when we CARE! Let us celebrate Pink October and continue to foster an atmosphere of care and support for everyone who struggled and those who continue to fight during this Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

#CARE #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth2024

#PinkOctober2024 #pinkoctoberzc

Free Breast Screening and Consultation for City Goverment of Zamboanga Employees

October 4, 2024

City Hall Conference Room

In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the City Government of Zamboanga through the Gender and Development Services of the Office of the City Mayor, Office of the City Health and in partnership with Mindanao Breast Cancer Support and Empowerment Association, Ciudad Medical Zamboanga and West Metro Cancer Center kicks off the Free Breast Screening and Consultation held October 4, 2024 at 9:00 AM - 12 NN held at Conference Room, City Hall.

Our utmost appreciation and salute to all the brave women who submitted theirselves for the breast screening.

Together we are STRONGER when we CARE! Let us celebrate Pink October and continue to foster an atmosphere of care and support for everyone who struggled and those who continue to fight during this Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

#CARE #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth2024

#PinkOctober2024 #pinkoctoberzc

PRIDE CONGRESS 2024

June 27, 2024

Grand Astoria Hotel, Zamboanga City

The Gender and Development Services of the City Mayor's Office in partnership with Mujer-LGBT Organization held this year's Pride Congress last June 27, 2024 at Grand Astoria Hotel, this city. Participants of the activity are the LGBTQIA+ Organizations organized in the barangays.

This year's congress highlighted the achievements of the members of the community in the industry of Fashion, Design and Make-up Artistry. These distinguished individuals stood as guests in the morning session, sharing their struggles in the industry and how they have overcome it, leaving an inspiration for the participants in their own journey.

The congress also featured the artistic skills of the participants through the Mask Making Contest, sponsored by the Sangguniang Kabataan Zamboanga City Federation, giving them the avenue to unleash their true self represented in their respective masks. Winners of the said contest will be awarded on June 29 at Sangguniang Panlungsod.

Junto-junto kita empuja mas el buen estar de todo, para na inclusivo cambio, progreso y desarollo ciudad de Zamboanga! Para na igualdad de genero!

𝓕𝓮𝓵𝓲𝔃 𝓜𝓮𝓼 𝓭𝓮 𝓞𝓻𝓰𝓾𝓵𝓵𝓸!

#Pride2024 #PrideMonth2024 #Orgullo2024

MARCHA DE ORGULLO 2024

June 27, 2024

City Fire District to Plaza Pershing

Throughout June, Pride Month not only gives the LGBTQ+ community the opportunity to celebrate, but it also gives them the opportunity to peacefully protest and raise awareness of any of the current issues they face.

As part of showing support and to the goals, including eliminating inequalities and promoting gender equality, the City Government of Zamboanga through the Gender and Development Services of the Office of the City Mayor, in coordination with the Mujer-LGBT Organization and LGBTQ+ Zamboanga Federation will spearheaded the MARCHA DE ORGULLO 2024 the local theme: ORGULLO 2024: “Celebracion de Amor, Amistad y Colores”.

The Parade assembled at City Fire District at Mayor Jaldon Street, passing by the Zamboanga City Hall and ended at Plaza Pershing for the program proper. The Program was graced by the presence of the City Mayor and GAD Chairperson, Hon. John Dalipe, City Vice Mayor Pinpin Pareja and Councilor Jihan Edding. Each has showed their support and commitment in their solidarity messages. We were also able to listen to Councilor Lilibeth Macrohon Nuño, in her words of encouragement through a video message.

The activity also recognized individuals from the Senior Citizen Sector and PWD Sector as they share their experience of discrimination and inequality.

As we culminate this beautiful celebration, let us be reminded of Mayor John's message that "Marcha de Orgullo 2024 is not only a day of celebration, it is also A CALL TO ACTION. We must continue to fight against discrimination and prejudice. We must educate and raise awareness about the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Each one of us has a role to play in creating a society where everyone is respected and valued. Let us pledge to be allies, to support one another, and to speak out against injustice.

Junto-junto kita empuja mas el buen estar de todo, para na inclusivo cambio, progreso y desarollo ciudad de Zamboanga! Para na igualdad de genero!

𝓕𝓮𝓵𝓲𝔃 𝓜𝓮𝓼 𝓭𝓮 𝓞𝓻𝓰𝓾𝓵𝓵𝓸!

#Pride2024 #PrideMonth2024 #Orgullo2024

#ShareWithPride #pridemonth

Observance of International Day for Women's Health Rights

May 28, 2024

Grand Astoria Hotel, Zamboanga City

The Gender and Development Services of the City Mayor's Office in partnership with City Health Office spearheaded the celebration of Observance of International Day of Women's Health Rights, inviting women from the different sectors and organizations. This advocacy is marked on May 28 by women and health organizations globally to educate people about women’s health and rights highlighting relevant social issues and the services that can be availed.

Participants were welcomed by the City Health Officer, Dr. Dulce Amor Miravite, laying out the program flow for the day and what to expect from the speakers.

The invited distinguished resource speakers are to discuss the following topics:

RA11596: An Act Prohibiting Practice of Child Marriage by Atty Bensaud Degusman of CHR IX

Rights and Relevant Laws affecting Women in the Workplace by Corazon Fatima Fallorin of DOLE

Safe Spaces Act of 2019 by Prof. Arnold Ferolino - PCW Accredited National GAD Resource Pool Member

Tuberculosis in the Workplace: Recruitment and Employment by Eastsun Hallilou Boniao-Pil - Regional NTP Nurse Coordinator

Non-Communicable Diseases and Services Offered by Dr. Rolando Lilienthal Bucoy - Non Communicable Diseases Cluster Head

Infant and Young Child Feeding Program: Breastfeeding in the Workplace by Chrystal Intal Dela Cerna from Nutrition Program

The activitiy was also graced by the presence of GAD Champions who are in full support of Women's Health, sharing their Message of Support:

City Councilor, Hon. Al-jihan R. Edding

In his inspiration message, City Mayor and GAD Chairperson, Hon. John M. Dalipe shared that in celebrating women's health, it is MORE than just an observance—it is a call to action. It is a pledge to continue the efforts in empowering women, to advocate for women’s rights, and to create an environment where women can freely thrive. Together, we can harness the strength of women's health as a catalyst for positive change in our society.

As we say, junto-junto kita empuja el buen estar de todo, para na inclusivo cambio, progreso y desarollo Ciudad de Zamboanga!

#GADvocates #womenhealthrights #womenshealth

Observance of International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia

May 16, 2024

Grand Astoria Hotel, Zamboanga City

In celebration of the progress we've made towards greater equality for the LGBTIQA+ community, the City Government of Zamboanga through the Gender and Development Services and Mujer-LGBT Organization gathered yesterday, community-based and school-based organization for the Observance of International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).

IDAHOBIT, is an event that marks an important milestone in the fight against prejudice, discrimination and inequality faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. It all started in 1990 when the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). Since then, IDAHOBIT has grown to include more people in the queer community, including intersex and asexual individuals. (theequalityproject.org)

Yesterday's Activity allowed the participants to appreciate the film Lupa Sug and was given the opportunity to have an avenue of discussion on Gender-Based Discrimination in the workplace, academe, and law enforcement as we invited Key People from the concerned agencies. We thank our panelists, Atty. Bennsaud de Guzman- Commission on Human Rights - Region IX, Mr. Sabino Ramero- DOLE 9 Zamboanga City Field Office, PCOL. Kimberly Molitas- Zamboanga City Police Office, Maam Sherryl Anne Palasigue- Amin- Commission on Higher Education Region IX, Prof. Rosalyn Echem-GAD Expert and Sir Harold Antes-Guidance Counselor for the fruitful conversation especially in answering the questions of our participants. The Talk Show was facilitated by Atty. Mimi Santos Abasolo, legal counsel of Mujer-LGBT Organization.

They have also shared their talent in the Obra de Arco Iris, a poster making activity that will help translate the diversity and respect in the community through art. These pieces will be featured in the upcoming celebration of Pride Month this June.

 We thank all our participants and partners for being with us yesterday as we celebrate one of the important milestones of Gender and Development. Let us all together STAND AGAINST LGBTQIA+ Discrimination!

#IDAHOBIT2024 #GADvocates #stoplgbtdiscrimination