BY ASANGAN T. MADALE
GENERAL SANTOS CITY:- SENATOR RISA HONTIVEROS Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women graces the National Women’s Month Celebration spearheaded by the Mindanao State University-General Santos (MSU-GENSAN) held at the University Gymnasium in celebration of the 2024 National Women’s Month on Friday March 1,2024.
MSU-GenSan Chancellor Usman Aragasi said in quest for the attainment of gender-responsive and gender-inclusive society,the University sat together in an insightful conversation with Hontiveros that garnered participation from diverse sectors within and beyond the MSU Community -including university officials , faculty and staff, students from NSTP and FPE classes, as well as other GAD advocates and officers from the Local Government Units and Higher Educational Institutions across General Santos City.
The university gymnasium was permeated with a symphonic Tri-people serenade of the Kabpapagariya Ensemble that was punctuated with thunderous applause of appreciation, setting the stage for the opening program.
The program commenced with a warm welcoming message from Chancellor JD Usman D. Aragasi, MPA, who graciously acknowledged all attendees, dignitaries, particularly the esteemed guest Senator Risa Hontiveros, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, for their participation in MSU-GSC’s Women’s Month celebration.
Chancellor Aragasi expressed gratitude to Sen. Risa for her unwavering support of the university and eagerly anticipated future engagements and collaborations with the good senator. He emphasized the importance of promoting equality, stating, “Equality must be promulgated—every individual or group of people is given the same opportunity and resources and afforded by the same rights and privileges regardless of circumstances as equality increases equity in the society.”
Dr. Mario J. Aguja enthusiastically introduced the honorable guest speaker, Senator Risa Hontiveros. Then, Senator Risa conveyed a poignant message acknowledging the unwavering dedication and tireless efforts of women and LGBT+ communities in their pursuit of equality and recognition.
“A nation who holds women back will never be able to move forward. Bilang isang bansa, kailangan nating tugunan ang mga suliranin ng mga kababaihan, and to achieve that, we need more women leaders. Kailangan ng ating bansa ang lakas at husay ng kababaihan. Step up to the challenge, be involved, be informed, speak truth to power, embrace your potential for greatness and be the best that you can be,” said the dignified solon.
Thereafter, the MSU Kabpapagariya Ensemble offered a tributary serenade, “Para kay Juana,” honoring the long standing plight and invaluable contributions of women in nation-building.
The event was further enriched by the insightful conversation with Honorable Risa enthusiastically moderated by Dr. Diane Mae P. Ulanday-Lozano, the Director of Center for Women Studies, and Dr. Norman Isla, the Campus Secretary. The conversation centered around critical topics such as the enduring challenges faced by women and the LGBT community in overcoming patriarchal systems, the implementation of drug rehabilitation programs and healthcare systems, and the proliferation of cyber hate speech targeting these marginalized groups in the Philippines and worldwide.
This was followed by the presentation of plaques of recognition to the honorable speaker. Subsequently, Honorable Risa led the reading of the oath entitled “For Every Woman” by Nancy Smith, dedicated to the essence of women in the nation, with all attendees joining in.
To conclude the event, the senator was honored with the prestigious Inaul cloth of the Maguindanaon culture. The momentous event concluded with a memorable photo session and resounding cheers of “Happy Women’s Month.” While the event drawn to a close, the unity forged and knowledge gained during the event will forever echo in the hearts of every MSUan, resonating within the campus and beyond.
