Tagum Cooperative proudly joined the nationwide observance of the 2025 National Women’s Month, themed “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas”, which highlights the vital role of women across sectors in shaping a progressive and inclusive future for the nation.
Held on March 22, 2025, via the Zoom Video Conference platform, the activity offered an exciting program that honored the strength, resilience, and contributions of women, especially in the cooperative movement. The celebration featured energetic performances, inspiring messages, and the recognition of exemplary mothers and women leaders who embody the values of service, compassion, and empowerment.
One of the event’s highlights was a Learning Session on Gender-Based Violence, led by a passionate gender equality and women’s rights activist Atty. Judy Marie Rapista-Tan. In her speech, she emphasized the significance of legal awareness and collective action in the dismantling of systems that propagate gender-based discrimination and violence. Her passionate speech was a call to action to all participants to be actively involved in promoting gender equity and creating safe and inclusive spaces in personal and professional settings.
The most tearful portion of the event was the Search for “Dakilang Ina sa Kooperatiba,” a commemoration of extraordinary mothers who made a positive difference in their households, communities, and cooperative environment. These inspiring women were celebrated for their selfless dedication, leadership, and nurturing spirit. This year’s honorees included:.
Lighting up the stage of excellence, this year’s best contenders showed that elegance, poise, and confidence are the real markers of a empowered women. As the 4th Runner-up, Miss Kathy Sheen Landawi of TCKidapawan was followed by Ms. Jackelyn Digal of TC Main as the 3rd Runner-Up. Ms. Jessica Pineda of TC Main reached the level of 2nd Runner-Up, while the 1st Runner-Up title was bestowed upon Ms. Jovelyn Ferraren of TC Nabunturan. Standing above all the rest and declared this year’s champion was no other than Ms. Luzvisminda Balbuena of TC Main, whose brilliance awed everyone in the audience and deservedly claimed the top spot.
Teeming with laughter, inspiration, and a strong sense of camaraderie, the event itself perfectly reflected Tagum Cooperative’s unshakeable commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and social responsibility. As the program came to a close, Tagum Cooperative reiterating its commitment to pushing forward initiatives that empower women, develop leadership, and create lasting, positive change in all areas of society. Abigael Suarez-Ruedas.