The Schools Division Office of Calamba City offered a thanksgiving Mass on March 10, 2023, at the Bulwagang Rizal, 4th floor of the DepEd main building.

Officiated by Fr. Jay David, vocation director of the Salesian of Don Bosco in the Philippines North, the Eucharistic Liturgy was attended by SDO officials and personnel. Fr. David gave honor and appreciation to the significant contributions made by women to society as they celebrate the 2023 National Women’s Month.

In his homily, the Mass celebrant focused on God’s love, compassion, and faithfulness in times of self-doubt and unawareness of their true identity in Christ Jesus which affect their thinking, judgement, and behavior. He reassured them of who they are and what they are capable of doing as “the Lenten season is a time to remember and reaffirm yourself that you are a child of God who was created in His image and with whom He is well pleased.”

One of the highlights of the activity was the rite for the blessing of the building, its premises, and employees.

Meanwhile, the Division officially commenced the 2023 National Women’s Month Celebration themed “WE for Gender Equality and an Inclusive Society,” a recurring theme for the next six years, until 2028.

In her message, OIC-SDS Gerlie Ilagan, CESO VI, raised awareness about women’s struggles by emphasizing the role of women in the pursuit of gender equality and inclusivity as “this can be achieved by providing women equal rights and opportunities, and women take these opportunities to further themselves.”

Month-long activities are set to be conducted to honor women and celebrate their contributions.