IN ITS constant bid to promote women empowerment in the community, the San Simon municipal government held Friday, March 29, a Women’s Summit to mark its celebration of the International Women’s Month.

Hundreds of Simonian women joined the parade dubbed “Martsa para kay Juana” which kicked off at the Barangay Sto. Niño Elementary School going to the Municipal Hall to showcase unity among women.

Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office Head Arminda Abenoja, in her speech, urged women to know and understand their rights to be able to fight for them and never allow oppression and discrimination get to them.

“Do not let yourself be a victim of oppression, discrimination and violence. We have laws and local ordinances which were crafted to protect and empower you so do not be afraid to use them for your benefit,” Abenoja urged.

Meanwhile, the Kambilan party led by outgoing Mayor and vice-mayoralty bet Leonor Wong and comebacking mayor Rodrigo “Digos” Canlas opted to grace the event instead of holding their opening salvo for the first day of the campaign period.

Wong, being the mayor who initiated the annual Women’s Month celebration in this town, said that she cannot afford to miss the activity that celebrates the contributions of Simonian women to nation-building.

“We cannot deny the contribution of women to nation building, and the pride and honor that we are bringing home to our community through our personal works and advocacies, and it is only fitting that we recognize that through a celebration,” she said.

Canlas, a mayor of San Simon from 2001 to 2010, for his part, acknowledged the role of women in the continuous growth and development that have transpired in this once-sleepy town.

“The role of women is very valuable. We can never discount their efforts in everything they do, from their households, to the community and in their respective careers, and this one day of celebration for them will never be enough to thank them for everything that they are doing,” he said.