In line with the month-long celebration of the National Women’s Month, the City Government of Valenzuela introduced a series of activities to be observed by every member of the Pamilyang Valenzuelano. To kick off the special event, a Zumba for Wellness, Equality, and Sensitivity and Women Bazaar was held at the Valenzuela City People’s Park Amphitheater, March 1. 

Raising the banner “WE are all for Gender Equality, WE are all for an Inclusive Society,” thousands of Zumba enthusiasts of all ages and genders from the 33 barangays, City Hall employees, representatives from the Valenzuela City Police Station (VCPS), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Schools Division Office - Valenzuela, members of the Men Opposing Violence Everywhere (MOVE), and several Faith Based Groups joined the energetic, fun, dance choreography that signifies the opening celebration of the National Women’s Month. 

Mayoress Tiffany Gatchalian alongside the City Councilors graced the event and made the zumba experience from the young ones to senior citizens enjoyable as they swayed and moved  gracefully to the beats of every song. Hence, promoting not only women empowerment but healthy lifestyle through dancing.

On the other hand, the official theme of the women’s month celebration is “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas; Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan!” According to the Philippine Commission on Women, the theme calls for a “new Philippines” where women are given equitable opportunities and not hindered by gender biases and discriminatory stereotypes, and at the same time, “showcase and harness the full potentials of women and girls in actively engaging in and reaping the benefits of national growth and development.”

Meanwhile, to commemorate the national event, the City Government of Valenzuela prepared a series of activities for the women’s month celebration. There are orientation, seminars, and training that promote the importance of various laws such as the Anti-Bastos Law, careful handling of gender abuse cases in the academe, and a compassionate seminar on postpartum mental health of new mothers, among others. 

The Zumba for Wellness, Equality, and Sensitivity was organized by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CWSDO), and is a staple part of activities lined up for the National Women’s Month celebration. Ultimately, the City Government of Valenzuela supports the program of the national government in promoting equality, and inclusive society for every Pamilyang Valenzuelano. 

Also joining the event were Mayor WES Gatchalian,  Vice Mayor Lorie Natividad Borja, and DILG - Valenzuela Director Sudi Valencia. 

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