LAGAWE, IFUGAO- – Expectedly, a large crowd gathered recently for the annual Women’s Month Celebration in Lagawe. Attendance was placed at about 700. Folks will be watching how women power will influence decision-making in the capital town in the coming years, its strength notwithstanding. Worthwhile deeds shall translate in time.
The program, which aims to acknowledge the key role of women in Philippine society, was attended by officers and members of various organizations in this sector from several villages. Lagawe has 20 barangays.
Municipal social welfare and development officer Susan Gallangi emphasized women’s essential role in nation building.
The women are hardworking, creative and loving, she asserted.
This recognition solidifies non-government organizations in the women’s sector as a front runner in championing community development, particularly in their collaborative stand with local government units and other partners to address the pressing issue of improving the lives of the people amid mounting poverty incidence.
“Together with our partners in the private and public sector, we are always delighted to see the growth of this sector” Gallangi said.
“At the municipal social welfare and development office, we recognize our responsibility in helping address their problems, and we remain committed to reaching out to our stakeholders at all times in Lagawe.” Gallangi added.
No doubt for so many years, this -under the stewardship of Mrs. Gallangi, has been bringing blessings, its resources, time and energies of personnel themselves as sign of engaging with the people, that through them, the national government may be seen as a doer of positive actions.
Through the dedication of her support staff (two of them acted as emcees in the program), the MSWDO has significantly contributed to the welfare of individuals in the marginalized sectors.
For his part, Mayor Leslie Roy Nahayangan called for unity in the women’s sector. A medical clinic was also conducted. It was backed by Mayor Nahayangan.
While the March Women’s Month celebration program is often seen as the primary activity indicator in towns and provinces in the country, it is important to also take into account what are its activities and its impact on poverty-stricken populace.
Unfortunately, many are deceived by parades and zumba presentations that may divert their attention from the uncertainties and difficulties brought forth by the high cost of living.
Weakened peso and low wages are bleak prospects ahead. It’s time to make sense in Ifugao. Thinking correctly and analytically are the only way women can feel secure that they will not all end up much poorer in the near-term.
Continuous legislative actions for the provision of jobs and livelihood opportunities for women will serve as the backbone of honest-to-goodness efforts to alleviate their difficulties. There’s surely a chance to upgrade their conditions- an opportunity to carve a decent and fulfilling life that’s even theirs to lead. Failure is waiting around the corner for those who are satisfied when “key message” is merely being read. After all, isn’t that what is the focal point of a program? **By Anthony A. Araos
