
29/03/2025
SDO SGA Champions Women’s Empowerment and Islamic Values in Groundbreaking Symposium
March 23, 2025 - The Schools Division Office (SDO) of the Special Geographic Area (SGA) kicked off its week-long celebration of the 2025 National Women's Month with an inspiring convocation program. The event, themed "Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas" (Women in All Sectors, Rising to a Brighter Future in a New Philippines), highlighted the significant contributions of women in education, healthcare, and economic development, reinforcing their vital role in the Bangsamoro region.
Women in Bangsamoro have long stood at the forefront of advocacy, working tirelessly to uplift their communities and promote peace. The convocation program served as a platform to share the powerful stories of women leaders and changemakers, reinforcing SDO SGA's commitment to gender equality and empowerment. The event sought to inspire more women to step into leadership roles and actively shape their communities' future.
The program opened with a solemn Dua led by Ustadz Asraf Saleh, Division Assistant Head for Madaris, followed by the National Anthem and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Hymn, presented through an audiovisual presentation. Setting the tone for the event, Aliso M. Edris, SMOD Chief, delivered an encouraging opening address.
Program Highlights:
Program Overview: Sittie Hasmin K. Alon, Division GAD Coordinator EPS-1
Message of Support: SDS Edgar Simtim Sumapal
Introduction of Speakers: Sheikh Jainodin Haron, Assistant Madaris Division Head, ISAL
Keynote Speakers:
1. Ustaza Marjanah S. Abubakar, ISAL Teacher, Old Kaabakn
Topic: The Role of Women in Strengthening Faith and Advancing Society During Ramadhan
2. Sheikh Ebrahim E. Gandi, ISAL Teacher, Kapalawan
Topic: Empowering the Rights and Capabilities of Muslim Women Towards a New Bangsamoro
A dynamic Open Forum, facilitated by Sheikh Jainodin Haron, allowed participants to engage directly with the speakers. Adding excitement to the event, the ISAL Team and the Gender and Development (GAD) unit hosted a lively Question-and-Answer session, complete with prizes and a raffle.
Beyond discussions, the event also extended support to the community through a medical outreach initiative. Attendees benefitted from free medical consultations, along with the distribution of medicines and vitamins, generously sponsored by the HNU.
Dr. Nasrodin O. Ibra, Madaris Division Head, EPSVR, delivered the closing remarks, emphasizing the ongoing need to advocate for women’s empowerment in Bangsamoro. The event concluded with Kafaratul Majilis led by Sheikh Jainodin Haron, leaving participants with a sense of unity and purpose.
Guiding the program with warmth and professionalism was Abdulbasser M. Mamaluba, Division Mental Health Coordinator, who served as the master of ceremonies.
The symposium stood as a powerful testament to SDO-SGA’s dedication to uplifting women and reinforcing Islamic values. It left attendees inspired and encouraged, reaffirming the essential role of women in shaping a more progressive and inclusive Bangsamoro society.
Zandra T. Sampigat