In celebration of the 2025 National Women’s Month, the Palawan State University (PalawanSU) Office of Human Resources Management and Development (OHRMD) launched a series of empowering activities under the theme “Empowering Women in Every Role” from March 24-27, 2025. These initiatives aimed to honor and support women by providing them with resources, education, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The four-day event was designed to focus on various aspects of women’s health, well-being, and empowerment. Activities included a mental health webinar led by Dr. Gary Dy, a resource speaker from the University of the East, and the Juana sa Opisina: Navigating Challenges of Working Women session, which explored the unique challenges women encounter in the workplace and strategies to overcome them.
To further cater to the diverse needs of women, the university offered a range of wellness services. A free haircut service was provided, alongside medical check-ups, laboratory tests, and the provision of essential medicines. A special HPV vaccination drive was also organized to raise awareness about cervical cancer prevention.
A personality development seminar was conducted, featuring a Smart Casual Make-up session to help participants enhance their professional image and boost confidence. In addition, reproductive health care discussions focused on critical issues such as breast cancer, cervical cancer, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), providing valuable information and resources for women to take charge of their health.
One of the event highlights was the Stand Up Against VAW forum, which aimed to raise awareness and promote action against Violence Against Women (VAW). The forum was led by Prof. King David J. Agreda from the National Gender and Development (GAD) Resource Pool of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), who shared his expertise on tackling gender-based violence and fostering an environment of equality and respect.
The event was made possible through a collaboration between the Office of Human Resources Management and Development (OHRMD), the Palawan State University Gender and Development Office, the Puerto Princesa City Health Department, the Association of Palawan State University Administrative Personnel (APSUAP), the Offices of JCI Puerto Princesa Oil and JCI Puerto Princesa Balayong, and Bong Villanueva Salon, which provided beauty services during the event.
The event was a huge success, bringing together women from various walks of life to celebrate their strength, resilience, and the significant roles they play in society. Through these activities, PalawanSU’s HR team reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women and promoting gender equality both within the university and beyond.
As the celebration of National Women’s Month concludes, PalawanSU continues to advocate for the well-being and empowerment of women in every aspect of their lives.
