March is a month dedicated to celebrating the achievements of women and advocating for gender equality. Throughout history, women have played pivotal roles in shaping our world, from groundbreaking scientific discoveries to leading social movements. In the Philippines, this celebration is particularly significant, rooted in legal frameworks such as Republic Act 9710, also known as the Magna Carta of Women, which mandates the protection and promotion of women’s rights.

The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (DA-BAFS) celebrates Women’s Month by orchestrating a series of impactful events with a diverse range of activities throughout March. The theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” emphasizes the vital role of women across all sectors.

Recognizing the indispensable contributions of women across all facets of society, BAFS aims to cultivate a more inclusive and equitable environment both within its organization and the broader agricultural sectors. The celebration kicks off with an essential in-house seminar focused on fostering gender sensitivity within the workplace, equipping staff with the tools to champion equality. Simultaneously, the KADIWA Trade Fair serves as a platform to showcase the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative products of women in agriculture and fisheries, highlighting their pivotal role in the sector’s growth. Adding a touch of reflection and inspiration, a special film screening dedicated to National Women’s Month also provides opportunity for collective learning and empowerment. As the month draws to a close, BAFS expresses its gratitude through the distribution of thoughtfully selected bookmarks and gifts, serving as tokens of appreciation for the invaluable contributions of women. Through these diverse initiatives, BAFS not only celebrates the achievements of women but also reinforces its commitment to building a future where gender equality is deeply ingrained in the fabric of the Bagong Pilipinas, ensuring and empowering women as leaders and agents of progress in the nation’s development.