CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATION (CSO) MEETING Mangaldan Wellness Center, January 13, 2026, 2025 Date: February 23, 2026
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Strengthening coordination and ensuring effective implementation of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Mangaldan was the main focus of the Civil Society Organization (CSO) Meeting, conducted on January 13, 2026, at the Mangaldan Wellness Center, Mangaldan Municipal Hall, Pangasinan. The session was led by Municipal Link/MAT Leader Rhiza Mae O. Rivera.
During the meeting, 4Ps Staffs and CSO Partners confirmed their handled barangays to ensure proper coverage and accountability, discussed the scheduling and conduct of Family Development Sessions (FDS) to strengthen engagement with 4Ps beneficiaries, explored participation in the Search for Best Volunteer Group to promote community volunteerism, and agreed to institutionalize regular FDS schedules and CSO meetings to sustain coordination and improve program delivery. The meeting reinforced the shared commitment of CSO partners and 4Ps staff to work together toward more responsive and impactful support for partner-beneficiaries in Mangaldan.
TEAM MANGALDAN
JUANA MALAKAS
STORIES OF EMPOWERMENT
Just as the Babaylans of our history, Juana Malakas is every Filipina who rises above daunting challenges to become a pillar for her family. This story honors women who break barriers and prove that true leadership is found in the strength of one’s spirit. In a world that often measures strength by what we can see, Ginalyn Mondejar Piscador embodies Babaylan spirit. Her life was met with a heavy challenge at just seven years old when she was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare form of eye cancer. Despite undergoing grueling chemotherapy sessions, she completely lost her eyesight by 2012. As a modern Juana Malakas- she is a woman navigating the unseen, but refused to let the darkness dim her vision for success.
Leadership is a journey supported by the tribe- Ginalyn’s family. Living in a simple residence with her mother, Rosalie- a part-time housemaid and a dedicated solo parent- is an active beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Rosalie leads her home applying the valuable lessons she learns from the Family Development Sessions (FDS). She ensures that every cent of the cash grants is put to good use, prioritizing the educational and medical needs of Ginalyn and her twin siblings. Since 2009, 4Ps has been their lifeline, providing the necessary support that Ginalyn needed.
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Ginalyn refused to let her disability define her capabilities, famously stating her mantra, "Disability doesn't mean inability". She channeled her energy into both academics and athletics. Her wit and grit has led to remarkable achievements in the local and national stage. She is a consistent honor student at Mangaldan Integrated School SPED Center (MISSC). She received a Silver Medal in Braille Reading during the Regional Festival of Talents in 2024. She is blessed with a literary voice by being an active contributor in the school newspapers, The Voice, and Ang Tinig. She secured a Bronze Medal in the 100-Meter Run during the 2024 Palarong Pambansa in Cebu. She also bagged double Bronze Medals in Running Long Jump and the 100-Meter Run at the 2025 Palarong Pambansa Para Games in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.
She won her fight against cancer a few years back. Her story inspires young learners and blind athletes by promoting inclusivity and accessibility in school and in the community. She may not see the world with her eyes, but she navigates life by showing her achievements in sports and in academics which have taught her to be resilient, and be a team player.
Her dream of becoming a journalist is her next mission- to serve as a powerful voice and prove that disability does not silence one’s ability to advocate for others, transforming her mantra into a mission for national inclusivity.
Ginalyn is a modern-day Babaylan of Mangaldan, Pangasinan- a Juana Malakas who leads not with her eyes, but with the steady light of her spirit. By weaving together perseverance, creativity, and the vital support of her community and the 4Ps program, she proves no obstacle can stifle the call to lead. Ginalyn is a Filipina whose internal vision burns bright, reminding us all that to “Lead Like the Babaylans” is to navigate the world with courage, even in the absence of sight.
BIDANG BABAE SA BARANGAY- Women's Day Celebration in Mangaldan Pangasinan
March 4, 2026 Date: March 9, 2026
On March 4, 2026, the Bidang Babae sa Barangay (BBB) Women’s Day 2026 celebration was held at the Mangaldan Municipal Hall as part of the Women’s Month celebration, Mangaldan Town Fiesta, and Pindang Festival. The activity was attended by 4Ps Parent Leaders, Barangay VAWC Desk Officers, Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
The event featured informative discussions on women’s rights, prevention of violence against women, and the important role of the community in protecting and caring for children.
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Various offices also set up information and service booths, including the GAD Office, PNP Women’s Desk, and the DSWD Purple Corner, which provided information on programs and services supporting women and families.
A Legal Helpdesk by the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) and free medical consultations and vitamins from the Municipal Health Office (MHO) were also offered. The activity also allowed some women to showcase and sell their products in support of their small businesses.
The activity aimed to strengthen women’s awareness, empowerment, and unity in the community.