Outstanding judge: Women be strong vs men’s abuses

AN OUTSTANDING woman awardee told the women of Iloilo to stand and fight for their rights against men’s abuses.

Regional Trial Court Judge Marciana Deguma, 2012 Outstanding Woman of Iloilo (Towil) awardee for the Judiciary category, said Ilonggas (Iloilo women) are not only known for their patience and resilience but also for their fighting spirit in the quest of their rights and freedom.

The judge said the women of today are in the midst of society that recognizes women power but this must be enhanced and nurtured as women are not only for the homes but also for the working environment.

Former party-list Representative Riza Hontiveros-Baraquel said the Towil Awards is a venue for pride and valuing of women achievements which the City Government has recognized for the past four years.

Hontiveros-Baraquel, who was guest speaker at the awards rites, said the Towil recognizes the excellence and institutionalizing women power as an important part of society.

Outstanding Ilonggas have led revolutions in the past such as Patrocinia Gamboa and Teresa Magbanua who stood and led the march to freedom and love of country, the former lawmaker said.

The fourth awarding rites held last Thursday was sponsored by Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, Gender and Development Team, City Council committee on women and family relations and the Haligi Foundation as an avenue for recognition of women achievers of Iloilo.

The 2012 TOWIL awardees were Dr. Eden Deriada for Academe and Education; Gina Sarabia Espinosa for Arts and Culture; Marjorie Caperonce Florete for Business Corporation and Entrepreneurship; Rebecca Berlin for Civic Organization; Marie Louise Cathryn Serbas for the Differently Abled Persons; Regional Director Evelyn Trompeta for Government Service; Judge Marciana Deguma for the Judiciary; Regional Director Mesa for Media, Public Information and Journalism; Rosalie Sarabia Treñas for Non-government Organization; Ma. Teresa Chan for Philanthropy Works; Senior Police Officer 1 Ana del Rosario Baganes for Protection and Security Service; Lucy Buendia for the Religious Sector; Ma. Rosa A. Cacho for Value Social and Community Service; and Dr. Lilia S. Teves for the Professional Sector. (Lydia C. Pendon)