By Rowena Cruz Sariaya Municipal GAD Focal Point Person Randy Tronila, Gilas Kababaihan President Marivic Gayeta, and PIA Manager Lito Giron...
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| Sariaya Municipal GAD Focal Point Person Randy Tronila, Gilas Kababaihan President Marivic Gayeta, and PIA Manager Lito Giron during the Kapihan sa PIA Quezon on March 6, 2024 at Pacific Mall, Lucena City. (Photo from Marivic Gayeta/FB) |
SARIAYA, Quezon – Over 11,000 women in Sariaya are proving themselves as economic powerhouses through the Gilas Kababaihan organization and its diverse livelihood programs.
Gilas Kababaihan, was founded with the vision of creating a space for women to gain financial independence and contribute meaningfully to their communities. "Since our establishment, the women of Gilas Kababaihan have become vital partners in supporting their families," states the organization's president, Marivic Gayeta.
During the Kapihan sa PIA Quezon on March 6, 2024, at the Pacific Mall, headed by PIA Manager Lito Giron with various media partners present, Gayeta shared that the women have not only improved their economic status but have also gained confidence and leadership skills. The success of Gilas Kababaihan has inspired other women in Sariaya to join the organization and pursue their own entrepreneurial endeavors.
The women of Gilas Kababaihan participate in a diverse range of income-generating activities, including dishwashing liquid production, community rice initiatives, bag making, langonisa (sausage) production, peanut butter making, ensaymada baking, hog raising, and local tailoring projects.
For many of these women, Gilas Kababaihan offers not just income, but a sense of purpose and community. The organization provides training, resources, and a network that fosters both economic and personal growth. Gilas Kababihan also has future activities for women, like sports festivals and skills development workshops, to further empower women in their communities.
According to Gayeta, a woman who is also a mother and wife, being president of Gilas Kababaihan has not only allowed her to contribute to her communities but has also given her the opportunity to inspire and empower other women to reach their full potential. She believes that by supporting each other, women can create positive change and break barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries.
When asked about one of the major challenges faced by the organization, she said it was when COVID-2019 hit and they had to pivot their programs to online platforms in order to continue providing support and opportunities for women in their communities. Gayeta emphasized the importance of adaptability and resilience during times of crisis, and how Gilas Kababaihan was able to overcome this challenge through teamwork and innovation.
She also said family is crucial in providing support and motivation for the women involved in the organization, highlighting the importance of a strong support system in achieving their goals. Gayeta's dedication to empowering women and her ability to navigate challenges with creativity and determination make her a valuable leader in Gilas Kababaihan.
In celebration of Women's Month, Sariaya's Municipal GAD Focal Point Person, Randy Tronila, highlighted ongoing efforts to further enhance women's lives in the town. These efforts include gender sensitivity training, strengthening the Men Opposed to Violence Against Women Everywhere (MOVE) organization, and expanding health services throughout the barangays.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration and community involvement in promoting gender equality and empowering women. Tronila also mentioned upcoming initiatives such as livelihood programs and educational workshops to provide more opportunities for women in Sariaya.
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