Koronadal City – In a significant move towards gender equality and women’s empowerment, the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) of Koronadal has officially institutionalized the annual celebration of the “Kababaihan Festival” every March 8, through a newly approved ordinance authored by Councilor Ellen Grace Subere-Albios.
This landmark ordinance reflects the city’s commitment to acknowledging the vital role of women in all facets of society—be it in the home, workplace, community leadership, or nation-building. The institutionalization of the festival is more than a symbolic gesture; it is a call to action to foster inclusivity, gender sensitivity, and respect for women’s rights.
Councilor Albios emphasized that the ordinance aims to promote women empowerment by ensuring that programs and services geared towards women’s welfare are highlighted and made accessible. “This is about creating an inclusive society where women are not just seen, but heard, respected, and given equal opportunity to thrive,” she stated.
One of the key features of the ordinance is the implementation of special lanes for women in all commercial and business establishments in the city from March 1 to March 8 each year. This simple yet meaningful initiative serves as a tangible way to honor and ease the daily lives of women, especially during the celebration week. Business owners are also encouraged to put up signage that supports the observance, reminding both customers and staff of the community’s collective respect for women.
The ordinance also strongly encourages all city government offices, barangay officials, national agencies, and private sector organizations to actively participate in the celebration. This collaboration underscores the belief that empowering women is a shared responsibility and a societal mission.
Over the years, the “Kababaihan Festival” has become a platform for dialogue, education, and celebration. Through forums, livelihood training, health and wellness activities, and recognition of women’s contributions, the festival serves as both a tribute and a promise—a tribute to the women who have helped shape Koronadal and a promise to support them further in the years ahead.
Women in Koronadal have long played a central role in nurturing families, leading in their communities, and driving economic progress. Institutionalizing the festival acknowledges these efforts and aims to pave the way for a future where more women are empowered, protected, and celebrated.
In a world that continues to grapple with issues of inequality and discrimination, Koronadal’s commitment stands out as a beacon of hope and progress. The “Kababaihan Festival” is not just a celebration; it is a declaration that women matter—every day, in every space, and in every role they choose to take.