Catarman N. Samar- To conclude the month-long celebration for women, a culminating program was conducted by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Northern Samar 1st District Engineering Office March 31, 2025 at the district lobby.
The culminating ceremony started with a prayer followed by a welcome remark delivered by one of the empowered women at the office, the chief of finance section Ms. Maureen S. Sabayo.

In her message, she recognized the vital role of women in infra implementation.
“Behind every successful project, behind every audited report, and behind every well-run office, there are dedicated women-our engineers, our administrative staff, and yes, even us in accounting making it all happen”, she stated.

“We are proof that women can excel in any field”, Ms. Sabayo concluded.

Highlighting the program is the “Know Your Rights” episode, wherein an equally empowered women of the district, Administrative Officer II (HRMO I), Atty. Angelica Dosmanos-Irinco, shared insights and legal awareness of Republic Act 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act (“Bawal ang Bastos” Law) which prohibits gender-based sexual harassment in public spaces, online, workplace, and educational institutions.

She also discussed some practical examples of situations covered by the law, tackled reporting mechanisms available to victims, and encouraged employees to actively uphold a culture of respect and accountability in the workplace.

District Engineer Alvin A. Ignacio shared that this annual activity also underscores the vital role of male allies in dismantling systemic barriers and building a truly inclusive society.
A Commitment signing was also conducted as part of the activity, where women affixed their signatures to support this year’s campaign.

Zumba session wrapped up this year’s activity promoting health and wellness among participants.

(ANALIZA A. PABIA/PR)

Brgy. Burabud, Laoang, Northern Samar– The Department of Public Works and Highways Northern Samar Second District Engineering Office (DPWH-NSSDEO) has successfully completed the construction of a vital road project connecting the barangays of Lawaan, Tarusan, and Bongliw in Laoang, Northern Samar, significantly improving accessibility and mobility in the area.

Implemented under the FY 2025 Regular Infrastructure Program, the project involves the concreting of a 1,280 meters roadway with a thickness of 0.23 meters and a width of 5 meters. It also includes the construction of road shoulders on both sides, grouted riprap slope protection structures, and the installation of four lines of reinforced concrete pipes to ensure durability and proper drainage.

This newly completed road is expected to bring significant benefits to local communities, including improved transportation, easier access to essential services, enhanced safety, and increased economic opportunities for residents and local business.

The DPWH remains committed to delivering quality infrastructure projects that support regional development and improve the quality of life for the people of Northern Samar. (PR)

TACLOBAN CITY — A multi-sectoral mural painting activity was launched on March 29 in Barangay 43-B along Congressman Mate Avenue, bringing together government forces, youth groups, and civil society organizations to promote unity and peace ahead of the Araw ng Kagitingan commemoration on April 9.

Dubbed “Pintahang Pagkakaisa,” the initiative was spearheaded by the Joint Task Group Tacloban in partnership with youth organization Amare Et Caritas, carrying the theme “Lupa ng Araw, Bayang Di Pasisiil.”

Participants from various sectors took part in the activity, including the 8th Civil-Military Operations Battalion, Tactical Operations Group 8, Naval Reserve Center Eastern Visayas, Tacloban City Police Office, Philippine Coast Guard District Eastern Visayas, and the Tacloban City Government through its City Tourism Office. Youth and civic groups such as the Sangguniang Kabataan Tacloban, Eagles Club Eastern Visayas, and PITAD also joined.
Organizers said the mural project goes beyond artistic expression, serving as a platform for community engagement where residents—particularly the youth—can convey their aspirations for peace, patriotism, and progress through visual art.

Jon Ivan Torreros, president of Amare Et Caritas, said the initiative draws inspiration from the country’s rich tradition of artistic expression, emphasizing that art remains a powerful tool in shaping national identity.

Colonel Rico Amaro, assistant division commander for operations of the 8th Infantry Division, underscored the importance of collaboration among sectors, describing the activity as a manifestation of shared commitment to community development and peace-building.

The mural painting activity forms part of a series of events leading to the observance of Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9, which honors the bravery and sacrifice of Filipino heroes during World War II.

Residents welcomed the initiative, noting that it reflects growing cooperation among stakeholders and strengthens community participation in peace and development efforts. Organizers said similar activities are expected to be conducted in other areas as part of sustained peace-building initiatives.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)