15 March 2025, SAN MANUEL, ISABELA – In celebration of Women’s Month, the Philippine Statistics Authority Regional Statistical Services Office II (PSA RSSO II). The PSA RSSO II remains committed to promoting gender equality and enabling women in the workplace or elsewhere to live life to the full. The agency successfully conducted a three-day capacity-building workshop for the women of the Regional Office and selected employees from the five provinces of Region II. The event took place from March 13 to 15, 2025, at Las Regnant, San Manuel, Isabela, with the aim of empowering women through knowledge and skills development.

The morning of March 14 featured a session led by Ms. Elena Madriaga, Planning Officer IV of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), on financial planning. Ms. Madriaga emphasized the importance of financial literacy for women. She said to realize one's personal and professional goals, effective financial planning is necessary. "Understanding financial management enables women to make informed decisions, protect their financial future and build wealth for themselves and their families," she shared.

After this session, Ms.Fritzie Jane Wandas, Psychologist I and Ms. Muna May S. Balinag, Psychologist III of the  Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 02 shared the importance of balancing life and work and prioritizing mental health in the workplace. This included activities to strengthen a woman’s sense of her own abilities and build recognition and success.

Engr. Rose Q. Pacay, Chief Administrative Officer of PSA RSSO II, said: "Empowering women is not just about giving them opportunities; it's recognizing their potential across all aspects of life and supporting them to grow. Women need environments where they can thrive as well. Pacay shared.

On the second day, participants came together for a team-building activity which served to foster greater unity: there was a midsummer dress parade in which employees not only bonded with one another but also showed off their creativity.

At the close of the three-day event, Officer in Charge at PSA RSSO II, Mr. Girme M. Bayucan, had this to share concerning women's empowerment: "Empowering women is essential to creating an equitable society. When women are empowered, they in turn elevate their communities and make a significant contribution to national growth. We must continue to work for women’s rights and ensure that their voice is heard." He also added that the event represents just one of a series of initiatives designed to create an environment in which women may develop and grow.

ENGR. GIRME M. BAYUCAN

Chief Statistical Specialist

Officer-In-Charge, PSA-RSSO II

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