CURRENTS, FORGING WAVES

Oliveros also stressed the importance of engaging men and boys in efforts towards women's leadership, policy reform, and impact. She believed that it is not just women but everyone who needs to be encouraged to achieve a positive social impact. This message served as a reminder that empowering women requires the collective efforts of society as a whole, including both men and women

After Mx Oliveros’ informative solidarity piece, the event moved on to discussing policy reforms The speaker for this part of the event was Mx Katrina Marie Oralde, a 3rd-year law student and legislative research aide at the Office of Councilor Trisha Ann Villafuerte

Mx. Oralde began her talk by emphasizing the importance of developing active political participation to forward the interests of women She then mentions how Davao City is at the forefront of promoting women ’ s rights and welfare through policy reforms She spotlights that Davao City is the first to have a women development code, which was enacted in 1998 The Integrated Gender and Development Division (IGDD) was created to reflect the city government’s commitment to pursue and promote women ’ s rights and welfare Through the IGDD, Davao City has been able to implement programs and projects that address the different needs and concerns of women in the community Oralde also shared about the unique policies in place for female inmates in Davao City’s Ray of Hope Village Female inmates in this facility do not have conventional jail cells, but instead, have a “home-type jail” that is more comfortable and humane They are also able to receive donations such as sanitary napkins, which are essential for their basic needs The policies in Davao City are not just limited to women ’ s rights, but are also inclusive of all genders Through these policy reforms and the cooperation of the Davao City government, women in Davao City can say, “life is here.”

The third and final part of the conference was a fitting culmination to a day filled with meaningful discussions and insightful talks

The participants were graced by a performance from POWER’S very own songbird, Mx. Jearvel Ann Bonjoc.

Following the musical interlude, the attendees were treated to a final solidarity video featuring the President of The Federacion Internacionale De Abogadas, Cagayan de Oro Chapter, Mx Hon Judge Jearlie Luis Requerme

The next speaker was Atty Acosta-Manlitoc, a lawyer and City Councilor of Davao City, who talked about the importance of effective lobbying in advocating for women's rights She highlighted the need for proper research and the need to build alliances and connections to strengthen the women's movement. Atty. Acosta-Manlitoc also emphasized the significance of finding one's advocacy and doing something about it She encouraged the participants to choose an advocacy that is close to their hearts and to connect with other groups with shared advocacies

The event ended with closing remarks by the President of POWER, Jhoanna Cayanan, who expressed her gratitude to all the participants and speakers for making the event a success, succeeded by the awarding of certificates to the speakers and a photo opportunity, which allowed everyone to capture the memories of this momentous occasion

Overall, Conquering Currents, Forging Waves was a resounding success, with participants leaving feeling inspired and empowered to make a difference in their communities It was a poignant reminder of the power of solidarity and the need for continued advocacy for women's rights and empowerment, as well as a celebration of the achievements of women and a call to action for everyone to join the fight for gender equality