In solidarity with the month-long celebration of National Women’s Month, the Nursing Students Organization (NSO), in partnership with Junior Chamber International (JCI)- Candon Gold Leaf spearheaded a symposium held at the UNP Auditorium on March 22.

With the theme “UNPians Rising Up for Women: Creating a Culture of Equal Future,” students and faculty from the College of Nursing participated in the event. The symposium aimed to promote gender equality and empower women through discussions focused on women’s health and leadership.

Dr. Francis Don L. Nero, Dean of the College of Nursing, reiterated in his opening remarks that true empowerment begins when individuals start to support and uplift one another.

“Today is about celebrating the incredible strength, resilience, and potential of women. It’s about recognizing the invaluable contributions of women throughout history,” Dr. Nero said.

Additionally, Dr. Vonnavic Agad, Director of the Center for Gender and Development, highlighted that regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity, everybody has an equal chance to realize their rights, dreams, and aspirations towards economic, social, political, and cultural development.

“As UNPians, we need to move in the direction of achieving a more gender-responsive university. We need to build bridges, fill gaps, resolve conflicts and disputes among women and men through gender equality, and create an inclusive society where everyone accepts their differences, shares their experiences, and works hand-in-hand for the benefit of the community,” Dr. Agad said.

The seminar’s first speaker, Dr. Kristel PF Lubrin Oandasan, head of the obstetrics and gynecology department of Ilocos Sur Provincial Hospital, gave an insightful discussion about advancing women’s health and reproductive care.

“Women’s contribution to society can no longer be ignored. It is everyone’s task to be vigilant in protecting and sustaining what women in the past have fought hard for,” Dr. Oandasan shared.

Hon. Joan Asuncion Valdez, who served as the second speaker, gave an insightful message on past, present, and future women in leadership. She recapitulated the transformative power of feminist leadership and that everyone has a role to play in society.

In addition, an open form was conducted to allow the participants to ask questions regarding the discussion of the speakers. Through this symposium, the participants were expected to honor the importance of empowering women in society.

Article by Sandy Joy Gasatan. Photo by Mark Paul Siazon.