The following was written by: Khaz- JP B. Padilla, Field Coordinator (Estancia)
The municipality of Estancia celebrated its National Women’s Month on March 25, 2026, spearheaded by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office. With the theme “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”, the event highlighted the innate strength of women in leadership and community-building. It commenced with a purple advocacy parade that integrated awareness on cervical cancer and the promotion of HPV cervical self-screening. Participants included various offices of the Estancia LGU, along with KALIPI members from every barangay and their respective barangay officials.
The program was strategically designed to integrate cervical cancer awareness with the promotion of HPV cervical self-screening, emphasizing that one meaningful way to care for women is by empowering them to take charge of their reproductive health. A self-screening booth was set up beside the stage near the municipal public restroom to accommodate on-site screening throughout the program. Assistance was provided by Nurse IV Alme Alarcon and 25 BHW presidents of Estancia. Adding depth and inspiration to the event, Hon. Ronalie Sausa, Kagawad of Poblacion Zone II and a peer navigator, shared her journey as a cervical cancer survivor. She openly discussed the challenges she faced during her treatment and its impact on her family, while emphasizing the life-saving importance of early screening. She concluded her testimony with pride, saying, “Ako si Ronalie Sausa, naging Cervical Cancer Patient, naging Cervical Cancer Warrior, and now, isa ka Cervical Cancer Survivor!”
A highlight of the event was the launching of a Photo Gallery featuring successful women of Estancia who have triumphed in their respective journeys. Prior to this, the MSWDO identified and interviewed ten inspiring women to showcase their stories of resilience and success. Among those featured were two cancer survivors: Kagawad Ronalie Sausa, a cervical cancer survivor, and Mrs. Salvy Liagas, BHW President of Barangay Tacbuyan and a breast cancer survivor. Their stories stood as powerful reminders that strength, perseverance, and hope can overcome even the most difficult challenges, inspiring other women in the community to remain steadfast in pursuing their goals and prioritizing their well-being.
Adding vibrancy to the celebration was the talent showcase of clustered KALIPI officers in Estancia. Representatives from different barangay clusters took the stage to present a variety of performances, including cultural dances, musical numbers, and creative expressions that reflected the talents, unity, and diversity of women in the municipality. The showcase not only entertained the audience but also served as a platform for women to confidently express themselves and celebrate their identities, further reinforcing the spirit of empowerment and solidarity among KALIPI members.
