The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) collectively joins the 2026 DOST Women’s Month Kick-Off Celebration, empowering this year’s theme, “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society,” and subtheme, “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”

The celebration pays tribute to the guiding spirit, transformative power, and leadership of women during the pre-colonial era and celebrates the same qualities embodied by Filipinas today, particularly in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. The event highlighted how these enduring strengths remain vital in building a gender-equal and inclusive society.

The program commenced with a vibrant parade around the DOST grounds and main building, participated in by various DOST agencies. The celebration formally opened with welcome remarks, inspirational messages, followed by the oath-taking of MOVE officers, and a fun-filled Babaylan Beauty Contest featuring representatives from different DOST agencies showcasing their beauty, brains, and leadership while representing their agencies, identity, and function.

Dr. Diana L. Ignacio, Assistant Secretary for Administrative and Legal Affairs (ALA), Head of the Gender and Development (GAD) Unit, and DOST-Wide GAD Focal Person, delivered the welcome remarks. She underscored the importance of sustained efforts toward gender equality and inclusivity within the Department and highlighted that 55 percent of researchers in the Philippines are women, according to UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization). She also reminds everyone that a lot of activities are still in store to celebrate women's month.

In his keynote address, Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, aligned the Department’s science, technology, and innovation initiatives with the celebration of Women’s Month. He reflected on the influential role of babaylans in the pre-colonial era, emphasizing how their legacy of leadership and empowerment continues to resonate across various sectors and disciplines today. Secretary Solidum also highlighted that women have the power to transform society, underscoring the Department’s continued efforts to open doors and create opportunities that foster greater participation and advancement of women in scientific innovation for national progress.

As part of the program, Secretary Solidum led the oath-taking ceremony of the newly sworn-in officers of MOVE (Men Opposed to Violence Against Women Everywhere), who committed to fostering a workplace culture that genuinely supports, protects, and empowers women.

Meanwhile, Undersecretary Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST-Wide MOVE President, delivered a message highlighting how Filipino women’s love for the country has always been evident in science. He emphasized that the work does not end with honoring their contributions, but rather calls on everyone to continuously reinforce the importance of genuine women’s empowerment and an inclusive society for all. One that requires sincere support from men. He further asserted that MOVE officers do not merely hold titles, they carry accountability within the department to challenge harmful norms, speak up against violence, and foster equality in the science, technology, and innovation workforce.

The ceremony was further enlivened by the Babaylan Beauty Contest, which added color, creativity, and cultural pride to the celebration. More than a showcase of their costumes, the event symbolized the enduring strength, wisdom, and leadership of Filipinas. It also served as a platform to showcase the identities and functions of their departments.

Through its active participation, DOST-PTRI reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender equality and promoting an inclusive scientific community where women continue to lead, innovate, and inspire. Not only in their workplaces, but also as they carry the stories, pride, and identities of the women they work with, particularly the women weavers who continue to champion Telang Pinoy.