COTABATO CITY (PIA) -- The City Government of Cotabato urged all Cotabateños on Tuesday, during the celebration of International Women’s Day, to be the lead in promoting gender equality and women’s rights.

In her message of empowerment, City Mayor Atty. Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi recognized brave individuals who continue to call for gender equality which paved the way for more opportunities for women to lead and be of service.

“As we observe the women’s month, I am encouraging all of my fellow women and all of my fellow Cotabateños to be one with the whole world in standing up for the rights of women, in breaking barriers, and in putting an end to stereotypes and all forms of discrimination,” she said.  

Guiani-Sayadi emphasized the programs and projects of the city government that aimed to empower women and make them more productive home-makers and effective members of the community.

She mentioned the implementation of laws that recognized the welfare of women such as the Anti-Violence against Women and their Children (VAWC) Act and the enhancement of the women’s desk in different police stations in the city.

Menwhile, the City Government awarded nine women from different sectors in the city with plaque of Pinnacle of Excellence in recognition of their significant contributions in the society as part of the Women's Month celebration.