by: Patricia Aisabelle Rosales

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – On March 31, 2026, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region – 10 (BFAR-10) marked the culmination of its National Women’s Month celebration, highlighting the indispensable role of women in the fisheries sector and reaffirming its constant commitment to gender equality and inclusive development.

As the highlight of the month-long observance, the culmination program conferred recognition upon exemplary women fisherfolk whose contributions have been instrumental across various domains of fisheries development. Certificates and tokens were awarded to women engaged in Women-Managed Marine Protected Areas, those serving as Deputy Fisheries Wardens (DFW) in support of fisheries law enforcement, practitioners of Women-Managed Aquaculture, and those actively involved in Post-Harvest and Marketing initiatives.

The awarding of recognition not only acknowledged individual achievements but also highlighted the expanding sphere of women’s leadership in community-based coastal resource management, regulatory enforcement, and fisheries enterprise development, emphasizing the critical role of women as both stewards and innovators in advancing sustainable fisheries.

On behalf of Regional Director Edward B. Yasay, the Chief of the Regional Fisheries Training and Fisherfolk Coordination Division (RFTFCD) formally opened the program, emphasizing the importance of empowering women as active stakeholders in fisheries governance and development. This was followed by the presentation of highlights by Stephanie Tomarong, Officer in Charge of the Planning and Monitoring Unit (PMEAU), which provided a comprehensive overview of initiatives undertaken throughout the month in support of gender mainstreaming and women’s empowerment.

During the program, Chief Noel Saldajeno expressed his appreciation to the participants and underscored what he described as the “power of three”—learning, labor, and leadership—as defining pillars of women’s contributions in the sector. He emphasized that women demonstrate a strong, ongoing desire to learn, as reflected in their active participation in training and capacity-building initiatives. He likewise recognized their diligence and perseverance, noting their consistent efforts in carrying out their roles across various fisheries activities.

Highlighting leadership as a crucial dimension, he stressed the importance of ensuring that women have a voice in decision-making processes at all levels. He further affirmed that women continue to stand firm in their identity, rising with confidence and playing an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of the fisheries sector.

The celebration featured a series of activities, including Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns, wellness initiatives such as Zumba sessions, and other participatory engagements designed to foster awareness, inclusivity, and collaboration among BFAR-10 personnel and stakeholders.

More than a ceremonial conclusion, the culmination reaffirmed the Bureau’s enduring commitment to elevating the role of women—not only as contributors, but as leaders and agents of transformation within the fisheries sector, while the gains and insights from the National Women’s Month celebration continue to guide and strengthen the agency’s pursuit of gender-responsive programs, ensuring sustained empowerment of women in fisheries beyond March.