In celebration of 2026 National Women’s Month, the City Human Resource Management Office (CHRMO), led by Ms. Ma. Eloisa A. Jaim, launched the Women’s Bazaar dubbed “Paninda ni Ermana.” The bazaar, which will be held every Friday throughout the month of March, officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the City Hall lobby.
The activity marks a special highlight in the ongoing series of events for city employees this month. The bazaar provides a dedicated space for women employees with entrepreneurial skills to showcase and sell their various products, highlighting their creativity and business potential while fostering a culture of empowerment and economic participation in the workplace.
In his message, Mayor Rex C. Oliva championed the initiative as a practical way to support additional livelihood opportunities for the workforce. He noted that the bazaar allows employees to earn “pandagdag kabuhayan” (supplemental income) without compromising their official working hours or service delivery.
Furthering his vision for employee welfare, the Mayor encouraged the participants to consider organizing into a formal cooperative. He explained that by starting a cooperative, employees could combine their money and efforts to get better opportunities and sell their products more effectively together. This teamwork would create a reliable backup for their finances, giving them the long-term support and stability they need to grow their small businesses.
The opening ceremony was also attended by Vice Mayor Edsel S. Dimaiwat, along with City Councilors Jor-El O. Caayao, Dandreb N. Abonite, Melnan R. Murallo-Asanza, and JM A. Grimaldo. The local legislators expressed their collective support for programs that empower women and promote homegrown entrepreneurship within the government ranks.
Through initiatives like “Paninda ni Ermana,” the city government continues to recognize the vital role of women not only in public service but also in economic development. The bazaar serves as a celebration of their strength, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit, perfectly capturing the essence of National Women’s Month.
Source: Lungsod Ng Iriga