Pagadian and Lakewood Campuses Unite for National Women’s Month 2025 Celebration at Provincial Capitol Gym

The J.H. Cerilles State College (JHCSC) celebrated National Women’s Month 2025 on March 14, 2025, at the Provincial Capitol Gym, with the theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas.” Employees and students from the Lakewood and Pagadian campuses united for this significant event, which was spearheaded by the Gender and Development (GAD) Office Director, Dr. Trinidad C. Abapo. The event was facilitated by Ms. Charmagne Merontos, Pagadian Campus GAD Focal Person, with the support of Ms. Cristy Udjaji, CMSE GAD Focal Person. Its goal was to highlight the crucial role of women in all sectors of society and their contributions to building a brighter and more inclusive future for the country.

Key figures from JHCSC attended the celebration, including Prof. Bobby S. Piscos, Lakewood Campus Director, and Dr. Patricia D. Bahian, Pagadian Campus Director. Also present were Atty. Romylyn O. Regidor, Dean of the School of Law, Dr. Rebie Marie Matildo, Lakewood Campus Academic Director, School of Business and Management (SBM) Dean Dr. Julito V. Mandac, Jr., and Prof. Glady C. Quirante, President of the Federated Faculty and Staff Association (FFASA). Faculty and staff members from both campuses joined in the celebration, reflecting the school’s dedication to empowering women and fostering a supportive community for all.

The program featured several engaging activities, including a special Zumba presentation by the SSC officers, encouraging everyone to participate in “Dance for All.” Atty. Romylyn O. Regidor, the guest speaker, delivered an inspiring lecture, urging the audience to combat abuse and promote women’s empowerment. She emphasized the need to uplift women in marginalized sectors. She noted their vital role as the driving force behind institutions like JHCSC, which strives to provide accessible, inclusive, and affordable education. A Zumba contest followed, offering attendees an energetic and fun way to express solidarity with the event’s theme.

In the Zumba contest, the following results were announced:
CHAMPION: SBM – Pagadian Campus
1st Runner-Up: STE – Lakewood Campus
2nd Runner-Up: SON – Pagadian Campus
3rd Runner-Up: SET – Pagadian Campus

Dr. Bahian thanked the Provincial Government Office (PGO) for its support and welcomed the participants, emphasizing the important contributions of women to the nation. She called for continued unity and support for women in all sectors, which are key in shaping the country’s future. In his closing remarks, Prof. Piscos congratulated everyone for their active involvement and expressed gratitude for the event’s success, reinforcing the spirit of women’s empowerment.