Pangasinan State University continues to empower women through the successful Kick-Off Ceremony of the 2026 National Women’s Month Celebration held at the Dr. Telesforo N. Boquiren Convention Hall on March 9, 2026, gathering university officials, faculty members, staff, and students in solidarity for gender equality and women empowerment.
Anchored on the national theme “Lead Like the Babaylans: Filipinas!”, the program highlighted the leadership, strength, and transformative role of Filipino women in society.
Delivering his support message, 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗿. 𝗘𝗹𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗠. 𝗚𝗮𝗹𝗮𝘀 reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to gender-responsive programs. He highlighted that PSU continues to champion initiatives that empower women leaders, recognizing their vital contributions in education, governance, and nation-building. He also emphasized that the legacy of strong Filipina leadership continues to shape today’s society through everyday actions and decisions.
“Be the modern Filipina babaylan that the nation needs. Be a leader who uplift others, bridges knowledge and action, and serves the community with integrity, courage, and compassion” he said, highlighting that every decision to stand for equality, fairness, and inclusivity reflects the courage and wisdom of the Babaylans—women leaders who once guided communities with strength and vision.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Romary L. Lincod, Director of the Gender and Development (GAD) Office, warmly welcomed the PSU community and emphasized the importance of collective participation in advancing gender equality. She underscored that the celebration is not only a recognition of women’s achievements but also a call to continue advocating for inclusive and empowering spaces within the university and beyond.
Serving as the keynote speaker, Atty. Gretchen L. Escaño delivered an inspiring message encouraging women to embrace their leadership potential with courage and purpose. She spoke about the enduring strength of Filipino women throughout history and emphasized that modern-day women leaders, like the Babaylans of the past, possess the wisdom, resilience, and influence to shape communities and institutions toward progress and equality.
“Gender equality is not a competition between men and women—it is a partnership,” she stated.
One of the highlights of the program was the Ceremonial Sailboat Launching, symbolizing the “Paglalayag ng Pagkakapantay-pantay.” The symbolic act represented PSU’s continuing journey toward gender equality, inclusivity, and empowerment—navigating forward with unity, courage, and shared responsibility.
Women Voices
The event also featured testimonial talks from notable women leaders of the university, who shared their personal journeys, experiences, and insights on leadership and empowerment.
Dr. Celeste T. Mercado, Vice President for Quality Assurance, spoke about the three important C’s in leadership she learned throughout her journey—character, courage, and compassion.
“Leadership is not proven by the loudness of authority, but by the steadiness of character, the courage to stand for what is right even when standing alone, and the quiet strength of compassion,” she emphasized.
Meanwhile, Dr. Madlyn Tingco, Campus Executive Director of PSU Bayambang Campus, shared her experiences in leading an academic institution and emphasized the power of determination and service in breaking barriers and inspiring others.
“Being a woman is never a limitation. We are warriors, we are resilient, and we are capable of achieving great things,” she reminded.
Dr. Leizel Del Castillo, Director for International Relations, highlighted the role of women in building global connections and advancing international collaboration in higher education.
“Do not be afraid of the waves. Dahil ang alon ang magtuturo sa atin kung paano maging matatag na mandaragat sa ating sariling tagumpay,” she said, inspiring women to continue moving forward despite the setbacks they may encounter in life.
Adding a perspective from the youth sector, Ms. Chary Ann May Santos, former Student Regent, reflected on her journey as a young woman leader in student governance, inspiring students to use their voices and platforms to champion inclusivity and representation. “Patuloy tayong maglayag.
Patuloy tayong lumaban hanggang ang tagumpay ay maging abot-kamay para sa lahat, anuman ang kasarian,” she shared.
The kick-off ceremony marked the beginning of a series of activities organized by the university in celebration of National Women’s Month, reaffirming Pangasinan State University’s commitment to empowering women and fostering a culture of equality and leadership.
Through this month-celebration, PSU continues to honor the spirit of the Babaylan—strong, wise, and transformative leaders—guiding communities toward a more inclusive and equitable future.
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