Driving progress towards gender empowerment

By Annie Rose A. Laborte

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) in March joined the world in celebrating the global milestone reached 46 years ago, when history saw the recognition of women for their achievements, through a series of activities held during the women’s month.

Opening ceremonies

BCDA’s first woman President and Chief Executive Officer Aileen R. Zosa led the activities of this year’s National Women’s Month celebration on March 8, which also marks the International Women’s Day. BCDA PCEO Zosa called on BCDA officials and employees to make it a way to uphold women’s rights and promote the welfare of women. Attended by both men and women staff and officials of the BCDA, the event resonated with the 2023-2028 theme “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society.”

Learning about gender equality

BCDA also conducted a forum series to discuss the theme of this year’s United Nations’ International Women's Day—DigitAll: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality.

Fora, which revolved around digital and technology vis-a-vis the quest for gender equality, were held: ChatGE: Talk about Gender Equality, on March 15; Safe in Tech, Innovation, and Cyberspace, on March 22; and KasamaALL: Inclusivity in Innovation and Technology on March 29.

Women and wellness

Protecting and fulfilling women’s rights, which includes the right to protection from all forms of violence, was highlighted during the Self-Defense Class for Women under Health and Wellness Program held on March 10 and 14, at the BCDA office in Taguig City and in Clark, respectively.