Rooted in the pre-colonial tradition of the babaylan as a wise, compassionate, and community-centered leader, this year’s observance highlights the crucial role of Moalboal women in governance, family life, livelihood, and community development.

Held at the Moalboal Municipal Grounds, the kickoff ceremony gathered municipal officials, women’s organizations, barangay representatives, and partner agencies for a women-led flag raising, interfaith prayer, and the symbolic wearing of purple to signify justice and dignity for all women. The program also introduced the national campaign’s call for shared responsibility, where “WE” stands for both Women and Everyone, emphasizing that gender equality and inclusive progress depend on the collective efforts of the whole community.

In his message, Mayor Inocentes G. Cabaron reaffirmed the LGU’s commitment to gender and development (GAD) and inclusive governance. “In Moalboal, our women are our modern-day babaylans—leading with courage, wisdom, and compassion in our homes, schools, barangays, and workplaces.

As we celebrate National Women’s Month, we commit to strengthening programs that protect women’s rights, expand livelihood and education opportunities, and open more spaces for women’s leadership in our municipality,” Mayor Cabaron said.