NCWP celebrates 76th Anniversary and holds General Assembly for current and new members and affiliates

With esteemed guests, dedicated members, and the Department of Information Communications Technology (DICT) Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa Sigue as the keynote speaker, the event promised to be an enlightening and empowering experience.

The afternoon began with the arrival of members and guests, who eagerly registered and paid their fees, their excitement palpable as they prepared for an afternoon of inspiration and knowledge sharing. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and camaraderie, as women from different walks of life, united by a common purpose, exchanged greetings and engaged in meaningful conversations.

At 1:30 PM, the opening program commenced with a warm welcome from the organizers, who expressed their gratitude to the attendees for their support and dedication to women’s empowerment. The room reverberated with applause as they acknowledged the collective strength and determination of the NCWP.

The highlight of the afternoon was the keynote address delivered by DICT Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa Sigue. A trailblazer in the field of digital technology, Undersecretary Sigue captivated the audience with her inspiring words. She emphasized the pivotal role of digital literacy in empowering women and enabling them to thrive in the national socio-economic landscape. Undersecretary Sigue shared insights into various digital initiatives undertaken by the DICT to bridge the gender gap and promote equal opportunities. Her speech ignited a sense of hope and possibility among the attendees, encouraging them to embrace digital literacy as a tool for personal and professional growth.

Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) Chair Sandy Montano as well as world renowned Filipina diplomat and former ambassador Rosario Manalo were also among the dignitaries who attended the event.

Following the keynote address, the NCWP President, Cecilia La Madrid Dy, Ph.D., took the stage to deliver her address. Dr. Dy’s words resonated deeply with the audience as she reflected on the organization’s rich history and its tireless efforts to champion women’s rights and welfare. She highlighted the significant milestones achieved by the NCWP in empowering women and acknowledged the collective dedication of its members. Dr. Dy’s address served as a reminder of the importance of unity and perseverance in the pursuit of gender equality.

The symbolic ceremony of the 76th Anniversary was a poignant moment, symbolizing the NCWP’s unwavering commitment to empowering women. A symbolic torch was passed from the founding members to the current leadership, representing the continuity of their mission and the torchbearer’s responsibility to carry the flame of progress forward.

The event also included the recognition and awarding of outstanding affiliate organizations and individuals who have made significant contributions to women’s empowerment. These honorees were celebrated for their exceptional efforts and achievements in advancing gender equality and fostering positive change in society.

The plenary lecture by Usec. Sigue, captivated the audience with its insightful discussion on the transformative power of digital literacy and the discussion of the DICT’s Digital Innovation for Women Advancement or DIWA. Experts shared practical strategies and success stories that showcased how women could leverage digital tools to enhance their economic prospects and participate fully in the national socio-economic fabric.

As the day drew to a close, the event culminated with the election and proclamation of the new Board of Trustees. The incoming leaders, inspired by the day’s discussions and motivated to continue the organization’s vital work, stepped forward to shoulder the responsibility of leading the NCWP towards a future of increased empowerment and progress.

The 76th Anniversary Celebration and General Assembly of the National Council of Women of the Philippines served as a testament to the organization’s enduring commitment to women’s empowerment. Through the theme of “Empowering Women Through Digital Literacy and Economic Empowerment,” the event underscored the transformative potential of digital tools in advancing gender equality and enabling women to realize their full potential. With Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa Sigue’s powerful keynote address and the collective determination of its members, the NCWP reaffirmed its role as a driving force in shaping a more inclusive and empowered society for women in the Philippines.