TACLOBAN CITY – The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO 8), led by Regional Director PB/Gen.Jay Cumigad, officially launched the 2025 National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC) with the theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas” at the PRO 8 Multipurpose Hall on March 3, 2025.
The event was graced by Regional Director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Grace Subong, who served as the guest of honor and speaker.
In her keynote speech, Subong underscored the vital role of women in all sectors and commended PRO 8 for its dedication to gender equality and inclusivity.
“The PNP and the DSWD share the same commitment to serving with compassion. This celebration is a recognition of the role women play in every organization,” she stated.
“Behind every great man is a great woman, and vice versa. We cannot do this alone—we need each other. This is a challenge for all of us as public servants to ensure that we truly uplift women in the new Philippines,” she added.
One of the event’s highlights was the provision of assistance and hygiene kits to ten policewomen and non-uniformed personnel (NUP) battling serious illnesses. This initiative, made possible through the PRO 8 OLC Foundation Inc., reflects the organization’s deep commitment to the welfare of its personnel, particularly women in uniform who continue to serve despite personal challenges.
Certificates of appreciation were awarded to various government agencies in recognition of their support for “Serbisyo Para Kay Juana”, a program providing essential services to female personnel of PRO 8. The initiative featured services from several partner agencies, including the Department of Health (DOH) – Health services; Commission on Population Development (CPD) – Family planning and reproductive health services; Technical Education Skills and Development Authority-Gandang Juana – Free manicure, pedicure, haircut, and massage; Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) – Civil registration services; lending agencies (PSSLAI, AFPSLAI) – financial assistance programs; Department of Agriculture (DA) – display of local products; Avon Mobile Store, makeup tutorial, personal development, and product display; Regional Medical and Dental Unit 8 (RMDU 8) – Free health and dental check-ups; and Regional Legal Office 8 (RLO 8) – Legal consultations.
This collaboration highlights the collective effort to support and empower women in the police force.
The NWMC is an annual observance in PRO 8, recognizing the invaluable contributions of women, particularly those in law enforcement, as they continue to break barriers and redefine leadership. Throughout March, PRO 8 will conduct various activities advocating for women’s rights and empowerment.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
