Tagum Cooperative, through its Gender and Development (GAD) and Social Inclusion Advocacy, proudly celebrated International Men’s Day (IMD) on November 19, 2024. This annual observance, spearheaded by the Gender and Development/Gender Equality (GAD/GE) Committee, highlighted the roles and contributions of men within the cooperative, the community, and their families.
This year’s IMD celebration featured a hybrid approach. The main event was conducted via Zoom, while all Tagum Coop (TC) branches showcased colorful booth displays and distributed giveaways. A pre-activity offering Free Prostate Examinations, facilitated by the Member Benefits and Assistance (MBA) Department, highlighted the cooperative’s commitment to men’s health.
The 2024 IMD theme, “Men’s Health Champions,” emphasized the need to address men’s health challenges and celebrated individuals and organizations providing solutions. The theme was supported by 4 key sub-themes: (1) building healthy communities, encouraging everyone to prioritize shared well-being; (2) looking out for one another, nurturing camaraderie and support among peers; (3) taking action to stay healthy, promoting proactive measures for physical and mental health; and (4) creating a healthier future, advocating for sustainable solutions to health challenges.
The online program began with a warm welcome from Tagum Coop’s Chairperson of the Board, Dir. Rosamaria S. Torrejano, followed by the rationale and objectives of the celebration presented by Dir. Josephine L. Fadul, Vice-Chairperson of the GAD/GE Committee.
The highlight of the event was an inspiring learning session, “Man in the Mirror: Self-Care and Reflection on a Healthier You,” delivered by guest speaker Dr. Michael Adam Aquino, a Filipino registered physician based in New Jersey, USA. Dr. Aquino shared valuable insights on maintaining men’s holistic well-being, encouraging participants to prioritize their health.
Adding to the excitement, the Online Singing Contest celebrated musical talent, with the following winners recognized: 1st place went to Mr. John Homer Bacea from TC Koronadal; 2nd place was awarded to Mr. Vladimir D. Santos from TC Main; 3rd place went to Mr. Joy Malasaga, also from TC Main; and 4th place was secured by Mr. Arfil Madrona from TC Main.
An inspirational message from Dir. Eduard C. Amoguis, GAD/GE Committee Chairperson, emphasized the importance of empowered leadership in the cooperative. The event concluded with a heartfelt closing message from Dir. Jose Alvic P. Suaybaguio, ensuring an uplifting end to a successful celebration.
Observed annually throughout November as International Men’s Month, the tradition began in 1992, founded by Thomas Oaster to raise awareness of men’s issues. It was revitalized in 1999 by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh in Trinidad and Tobago to promote unity and commemorate his father’s birthday alongside a historic national soccer victory.
Through the IMD 2024 participation, Tagum Cooperative reaffirmed its commitment to gender equity and its dedication to advancing the health and well-being of all its TC members. Leslie S. Canuto