Mataasnakahoy, Batangas—The Babae Ako Partylist hosted its biggest “Empower Her” event to date, led by Ms. Rossel “Shantal D.” Dimayuga, Babae Ako Partylist – first nominee, along with her fellow nominees. The event is particularly close to Ms. Dimayuga’s heart, as Mataasnakahoy is not only her hometown but also the place where she spent her formative years. It was a true homecoming for her, filled with nostalgia, pride, and an overwhelming sense of community.
The day’s festivities kicked off with a lively and colorful parade, energized by participants from across Batangas, all eager to join in the celebration. The streets were filled with music, cheers, and a palpable sense of excitement. Among the event’s most anticipated highlights was the Zumba Competition, which featured more than 25 Zumba groups, each bringing their best moves to the stage. The competition was not just about fitness but about joy, camaraderie, and the shared energy of women coming together in celebration. The synchronized routines and contagious energy were a sight to behold, leaving the crowd in awe.
Beyond the entertainment, the event also prioritized the well-being of attendees. Free haircuts and massages were offered, giving participants a chance to relax and be pampered, further emphasizing the event’s focus on self-care and empowerment. The excitement continued with thrilling raffle draws, where many lucky guests took home exciting prizes, adding to the day’s fun and engagement.
In her keynote speech, Ms. Rossel “Shantal D.” Dimayuga took the stage with a warm smile, greeting her fellow kababayans. She surprised the crowd with a heartfelt song performance, which brought everyone to their feet, creating a moment of unity and shared emotion. In her address, she passionately reiterated the core advocacies of the Babae Ako Partylist, particularly focusing on the empowerment and rights of women. Ms. Dimayuga emphasized the importance of solidarity and collective action, urging the community to continue supporting initiatives that uplift women and strengthen families. Her words struck a chord with the audience, reinforcing the message that true progress comes from working together.
The success of the event was a testament to the collaborative efforts of the entire community. Ms. Dimayuga extended her deepest gratitude to Governor Jay Manalo Ilagan, Mayor Janet M. Ilagan, and the entire leadership of Mataasnakahoy for their invaluable support in making the event possible. She closed her speech with a touching message to her kababayans, saying, “Maraming maraming salamat, at mahal ko po kayo,” a statement that resonated deeply with everyone in attendance.
The “Empower Her” event was not just a celebration; it was a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of women, as well as the importance of community. It left a lasting impact on everyone involved, inspiring hope and a renewed commitment to empowering one another. Babae Ako Partylist remains unwavering in its commitment to empowering women, and will continue to bring events like these to communities everywhere, ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to rise, thrive, and be celebrated.
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