The Gender and Development Focal Point System introduces the new recurring theme of the National Women’s Month celebration, which will be used from this year until 2028.
The theme, “WE for gender equality and inclusive society,” was presented in an “edutainment” approach including ‘GAD You Know’ trivia, #PurpleWednesday, and #PurpleYourIcon advocacy.
Staff were oriented on gender sensitivity, GAD mainstreaming, and gender equality and women empowerment to ensure that PhilRice projects will help address the gender gaps in agriculture.
Women’s role and contribution to the rice sector was also highlighted in the social media.
During the International Women’s Day on March 8 with the theme, “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality,” the Institute showcased digital innovations such as Binhing Palay and Minus-One-Element Technique (MOET) app.
“Many of us still lack the knowledge on modern rice crop management. Some even don’t bother learning them because they’ve been so accustomed to conventional practices or they don’t have the necessary means. As a local farmer technician, it has been my dedication to help change the situation so rice farming can be more rewarding,” Sarah C. Villaflor, farmer from Negros Occidental, said.
While also using several apps since 2016, Villaflor found the MOET app more fitting in their area as it does not require internet connectivity.
“Many apps require the internet to generate recommendations, which proved challenging as we don’t have that often. With the MOET app, we can provide recommendations immediately without the internet,” she said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Diadem G. Esmero, the Institute’ Focal Point System-Technical Working Group focal person said that PhilRice also seeks to provide economic opportunities for women. “To inspire them, we will conduct a webinar on community-supported agriculture and the use of digital platforms in marketing agricultural products,” Esmero said.
