In celebration of National Women’s Month 2026, the Philippine Normal University, together with the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) National Commission of the Philippines, once again hosted the Geronima T. Pecson Forum 2026, held on March 16, 2026, at the HRD Auditorium. The forum was organized in partnership with the Vibal Foundation and the Pi Lambda Theta Organization.
With the theme “ALAGHAM: Ang Babae, ang Banwa, at ang Bahura,” the forum highlighted the vital role of women in education, science, environmental stewardship, and community development. The term Alagham is a portmanteau of alaga (care) and agham (science). It promotes a more humanized approach to the conservation of natural sites that recognizes care, responsibility, and knowledge.
The concept of banwa, meaning home or community, reflects the goals of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15: Life on Land, while bahura, meaning reef, represents SDG 14: Life Below Water. These ideas collectively contribute to SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 5: Gender Equality. Together, they underscore the important role of women in shaping sustainable communities and advancing environmental stewardship.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Marilyn U. Balagtas, Vice President for Academics and Vice President for External Affairs, and a member of the Pi Lambda Theta Organization, emphasized leadership rooted in education. She explained that education is a lifelong principle and a vital force for progress. Dr. Balagtas also highlighted the responsibility of educators and communities to move forward with care, compassion, and stewardship. She stressed that women play an important role not only in safeguarding the planet but also in nurturing inclusive and lifelong education.
Delivering his message, Dr. Bert J. Tuga, University President, emphasized that the story of women is closely intertwined with the development of communities and the protection of the environment. He shared that women, as leaders, artists, educators, and community members, play a vital role in safeguarding ecosystems and shaping society. Dr. Tuga also highlighted the powerful connection among science, education, and the arts and culture, which encourages meaningful exchanges of ideas and interdisciplinary perspectives. He further emphasized that the University ensures that women’s voices are heard. He described women as builders, leaders, and lights who shape minds and inspire meaningful connections.
Another message was delivered by Dr. Ivan Anthony S. Henares, Secretary-General of the UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines, who highlighted that knowledge and education open doors for communities and that women have built spaces that continue to benefit society today. According to him, women stand at the center of education, and their leadership strengthens how communities care for the environment. He shared the message, “Kapag pinapalakas natin ang mga kababaihan, pinapalakas din natin ang kinabukasan ng mga paaralan.” Dr. Henares further added that the most powerful classrooms are not defined by walls but by the people who inspire learning.
The PNU Kislap Sining Dance Troupe also graced the program with a cultural performance while dressed in purple dresses symbolizing the celebration of women.
Following the performance, Prof. Iona Ofelia B. Zanoria, Director of the Gender Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Office, introduced the speakers for the panel discussion.
The panel discussion featured distinguished speakers from various fields. Ms. Angelique Songco, Site Manager of the Tubbataha Management Office, discussed the role of women in conservation. Dr. Leah Amor S. Cortez, Vice President for Student Success and Stakeholder Services, spoke about the role of women in science education. Ms. Rio Brigino-Lim, Marketing Manager of the Vibal Foundation, highlighted the role of women in publishing. Dr. Felicia I. Yeban, CTD Faculty Assistant on Critical AI and Digital Literacy and member of the Pi Lambda Theta Organization, shared insights on the role of women in technology. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Shila Rose Sia-Pastor, a member of the Pi Lambda Theta Organization.
During the discussion, Ms. Songco highlighted the challenges faced by the ocean, noting that it continues to be abused and misused, particularly in trade and other human activities. Dr. Cortez emphasized that environmental issues must be deeply understood in order to be effectively taught, explaining that educators cannot truly teach what they do not fully understand.
Ms. Brigino-Lim explained that publishing goes beyond writing. She noted that women are not only writers but also publishers who shape the learning of young readers and contribute to children’s understanding of the world.
Dr. Yeban discussed the role of technology and critical AI literacy, raising the reflective question to the audience: “Para saan ba talaga ang mga kababaihan?” This question encouraged deeper reflection on the role of women in technology and society.
During the panel discussion, the speakers proposed several actions moving forward. They encouraged greater exposure of young people, especially young women, to nature and emphasized the importance of integrating environmental awareness into education. In addition, they highlighted the need to encourage more young readers and strengthen engagement with children’s literature so that the publishing industry can continue to grow and inspire future generations.
The forum concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Teresita T. Rungduin, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Quality Assurance and a member of the Pi Lambda Theta Organization. In her message, she encouraged the audience to imagine a world where women are fully empowered to explore, discover, and contribute to society. She emphasized that when women are given opportunities to lead and innovate, the next generation of girls and boys will grow up believing that their voices, ideas, and aspirations truly matter.
A book signing of Ms. Songco’s Mama Ranger Diaries followed shortly after the conclusion of the program.
The event instilled a renewed sense of commitment among participants to continue empowering women and strengthening their role in shaping a more inclusive, educated, and sustainable future.
𝗔𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝘄𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗯𝘆 Michelle Ann N. Basas 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗡𝗨 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗹𝗮 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺
