Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), along with all the PFDA Regional Fish Ports (RFP), joined in the collective pursuit of gender equality and conducted a kickoff program in celebration of the 2025 National Women’s Month, with the 2023-2028 recurring theme, “WE for gender equality and inclusive society.” on March 3, 2025.
This year, the PFDA highlights the sub-theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas.” As one of the leading government agencies supporting the fishery sector, the PFDA joins the call in reinforcing the core objective of Republic Act (R.A.) 9710, or the Magna Carta of Women—to empower women, promote gender equality, and ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities.
Two women in power of PFDA, namely Corporate Board Secretary Atty. Fatima Dennise D. Briones-Mejica and Corporate Planning and MIS Department Manager Ms. Gina J. Reyes, shared some inspirational words during the kickoff program held at the PFDA - Central Office.
Atty. Briones-Mejica said that as a woman in government, “every step we take as women is a step toward a brighter, stronger, and more equal future.”
“Kaya naman ngayong Buwan ng Kababaihan, hiling ko na huwag tayong tumigil. Huwag tayong matakot magtagumpay. Patuloy nating ipagmalaki ang ating kontribusyon tungo sa isang Bagong Pilipinas,” Atty. Briones-Mejica said.
In addition, Ms. Reyes emphasized on the important role that women play in society, in the workplace, in our families, and in our communities.
“Bilang isang babae sa tanggapan ng gobyerno, nais kong ipaalala sa bawat isa na mayroon tayong isang tinig ng lakas, determinasyon, at pagbabago… Walang limitasyon sa ating hinaharap… Kaya naman hinihikayat ko kayong lahat na patuloy nating suportahan at palakasin ang isa’t isa at maging matapang tayo sa ating mga pangarap, dahil kapag ang kababaihan ang bumangon, bumabangon din ang ating lipunan,” Ms. Reyes said.
During the Women’s Month, the PFDA Central Office, led by the PFDA - Gender and Development Focal Point System (PFDA-GFPS) will be conducting various Gender and Development (GAD)-related activities, including a Gender Sensitivity Orientation for newly hired personnel and a GAD Film Showing, which will serve as a culmination activity for the month of March.
On the other hand, PFDA RFPs also conducted various activities to commemorate the start of the 2025 NWMC.
(Public Information Division)