The pandemic didn’t stop enthusiastic and energetic Tagum Cooperative members who danced to the music and sung iconic lyrics in the first-ever Virtual Women’s Month Celebration held on March 13, 2021 via Zoom Conferencing.
The festivity showcased the Awit ng Kababainhan where women-members recorded their own rendition of empowering songs for women. Winning first place for this competition is Ms. Grace Antonio of Nabunturan Branch as she sang her heart out in “Ilaw ng Tahanan.” Dance entries for the iconic Tiktok Challenge were also played where Sophia Ryme Villanueva from Panabo Branch was held champion.
The event also featured the “Usapang Pangkabuhayan” with Resource Speaker Ms. Marianne Dela Cruz from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Davao del Norte, where she shared the various business ideas and marketing strategies despite the pandemic.
Sharing their “Inspirational Stories” on the hardships and lessons in life were two empowered women – Dr. Evelia R. Sator, member of Tagum Coop Board of Directors and a women awardee; and Ms. Girlie M. Limbadan, a public teacher and principal of Gatong and Igang Elementary School in Talaingod, Davao del Norte. Both of them touch the hearts of every participant about their life experiences as a woman, such as the struggles and achievements for being a mother, a wife, a leader, an entrepreneur and a public servant.
Spearheading the virtual gathering is the Gender Equality Committee composed by Dir. Evelia R. Sator, Ed.D., Dir Nenita R. Malbas, CPA, MBA, and Engr. Jose Alvic P. Suaybaguio, SE, MPA. Also present is the Board of Directors’ Vice Chairperson Dir. Noel O. Quidilla, Dir. Monica L. Salido and Chief Executive Officer Ms. Juris D. Perez, CPA, MBA who imparted meaningful insights on how women contribute to the success of the society.
The National Women’s Month Celebration official theme for 2021 is “Women in Leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world.” which connotes that every individual should see the tremendous efforts of women who are at the forefront in battling against COVID-19 pandemic. The theme also calls for the women’s right to decision-making in all areas of life and to end all forms of violence against women and girls.