The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) IX Regional Office celebrated the 2025 Women’s Month with various activities both within the office and across other agencies. Personnel from all divisions participated in the Opening Ceremony, where the office’s plans for the month were discussed, including activities such as contests, marches, and training sessions. To show strong support, all employees were required to wear purple shirts every Wednesday throughout the month. 
      One of the highlights of the PSA IX's participation was joining the Marcha De Las Mujeres, a city-wide march organized by the City Government of Zamboanga through the Gender and Development Services (GADS). Participants included individuals from various sectors, organizations, and government agencies. During the event, women from different agencies were recognized for their valuable contributions to the community. Additional activities, such as games and a photo booth, were also organized, all of which were free to the public as part of the Women’s Month celebration in the city.

      In addition to this, the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Senate of Zamboanga, in partnership with the Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) IX, conducted a training for PSA IX personnel. This training, aligned with the theme "Defend, Disarm, and Dominate: Women's Self-Defense Training," aimed to teach the basics of self-defense, techniques for handling uncertain situations, and the discipline needed to strengthen one's core and focus. Tai Chi was also incorporated into the training, with instructors demonstrating proper execution of the martial arts.

     An office-based activity was also organized as part of the celebration. One initiative, #PurpleWednesday, encouraged personnel from all divisions to capture unique poses with women's empowerment props and paraphernalia. Furthermore, upcoming training sessions on gender sensitivity and equality for PSA frontliners, initiated by the PSA central office, will involve regional office IX personnel. The Women’s Month Culmination and Wellness Activity, scheduled for the end of March, will conclude the celebration, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and gender equality for all individuals in the office.

MEWCHUN WS. PAMARAN
Regional Director

GBS/YSG/AAE