WFWP Philippines Celebrates International Women's Day
Written by: Almera Grace Mayo
On March 18, 2025, the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) Philippines and Misamis Oriental Chapter hosted a symposium at the Session Hall of Barangay Bulua Office to celebrate International Women’s Day. The event gathered 40 women leaders from various barangays across the city and province, centered on the theme: “For All Women and Girls’ Rights, Equality, and Empowerment.”
The event featured inspiring speeches from notable women leaders, including Hon. Joyce Daan, Barangay Councilor of Bulua, who handles the women sector. She emphasized the importance of grassroots leadership in empowering women and promoting gender equality.
Mrs. Anunciacion V. Prospero, Retired City Head of DSWD El Salvador City and current full-time President of WFWP Misamis Oriental, shared her experiences advocating for women’s rights and the necessity of unity in addressing social challenges.
The keynote speaker, Mrs. Almera Grace Mayo, the WFWP Philippines National President, highlighted the global significance of Women’s Month and the role of women in advancing peace and equality. She stated, “Women must be the light of change, leading the movement for peace, gender equality, and empowerment.”
The discussion emphasized that women’s leadership, rooted in maternal love and harmony, is key to addressing today’s global crises, such as economic struggles, political instability, climate change, and natural disasters. Women were encouraged to step forward as peace-builders and take active roles in shaping a more peaceful and just society.
A special segment of the program was a unified prayer session, where women leaders joined together to pray for the world, Korea, the Philippines, and Misamis Oriental. This moment of reflection symbolized the strength of women’s collective faith and commitment to global peace.
The symposium was moderated by Mrs. Gloria Mosqueda, a Retired DSWD Region 10 Planning Division Head, who ensured a meaningful and engaging discussion. A motivational talk then reinforced the idea that peace and harmony begin with women, with one facilitator stating, “We should start now—change begins with us.”
This event significantly contributed to the goals of the Global Women Peace Network (GWPN) by fostering dialogue, empowering women leaders, and strengthening collaborative efforts for sustainable peace. The gathering was led by experienced women leaders and social workers, many of whom have dedicated over 30 years to serving the women’s sector.
The event concluded with a call to action for women to become agents of change, lead with courage, and advance the vision of a peaceful world."
