BONTOC, Mountain Province (PIA) — The government and non-government sectors here came together to celebrate Women’s Day with a parade and program on March 6, 2026.
With the theme “Lead Like the Babaylans, Filipinas,” the celebration aimed to empower women and promote Filipino identity through the spirit of babaylan leadership.
In her keynote speech, guest speaker Mary D. Bacwaden emphasized that the babaylan represents balanced, compassionate, and courageous leadership deeply rooted in Filipino culture.
“A reminder that true leadership has always been with us. A reminder that Filipino identity is deeply rooted in balanced, compassionate, and courageous leadership. And a reminder that the future of leadership is not something we invent—it is something we remember,” she said.
She further shared that the Babaylans were highly respected women who served as spiritual leaders, healers, and trusted advisers within their communities. They guided their people through wisdom, empathy, and strong spiritual grounding rather than through authority or force. Their leadership emphasized attentive listening, mediation of conflicts, and the preservation of peace and harmony in the community.
Representative Maximo Y. Dalog, Jr. also shared his insight that Women’s Day should not be celebrated only in March, but every day.
“Nan Women’s Month kuma, faken angkay Marso, nu di ket inagew, nu di ket finuran.”
Provincial Administrator John K. Likigan, representing Governor Bonifacio C. Lacwasan, Jr., said that behind every success story is a woman who sacrifices, supports, and perseveres often quietly and without recognition.
“Today, we honor the mothers, leaders, professionals, and young women who continue to shape our families, our communities, and our future,” Likigan added.
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, in partnership with the Mountain Province Police Provincial Office, also offered free massage, manicure and pedicure, and haircut services, as part of the program. **VJLT/CKI – PIA-CAR, Mountain Province
