Women’s contributions to society continue to break barriers, as the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Regional Fisheries Office 1 (BFAR-RFO1), through its Gender and Development (GAD) section, hosted a regional opening ceremony on March 6 at the BFAR1 Building, Government Center, Sevilla, La Union.

The day started with an energetic Zumba session, setting the tone for an empowering event. This was followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the Seafood KADIWA ng Pangulo, where women from BFAR-assisted associations showcased various fisheries and agricultural products for consumers.

The celebration also featured inspiring words from women leaders who continue to break barriers in their fields. This include Atty. Ma. Patricia Rimando, President of Regional Advocates for Gender and Equality (RAGE) 1, who emphasized the importance of self-acceptance and personal advocacy.

“We must learn to embrace ourselves—whatever our size, skin texture, or background. The best way to advocate for something is to embody it ourselves,” she said.

Gavina Tumbaga, a member of the National Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (NFARMC), highlighted the vital role of women in the fisheries sector.

“We should not limit the potential and contributions of women in the fisheries industry,” she mentioned.

Guest speaker Mary Jane Ortega further reinforced the importance of gender equality.

“Men and women are equal. Women are just as important as men. Today, we honor the sacrifices of our grandmothers, aunts, and mothers. Over the years, women’s roles have expanded—not just in education but in society as a whole,” she shared.

One of the event’s highlights is the Karpie Waffle cooking demonstration by the Fisheries Production and Support Services Division – Fisheries Post Harvest and Marketing Services Section (FPSSD-FPHMS). The demo showcased an innovative and sustainable way to utilize carp, a widely available yet often underutilized fish in the country.

To cap off the celebration, participants were recognized for their dedication and support in empowering women in #BagongPilipinas.