ISU-San Mariano Kicks Off 2026 National Women’s Month with Focus on “Babaylan” Leadership
SAN MARIANO, ISABELA – Signaling a month-long commitment to gender equality and inclusive growth, Isabela State University (ISU) – San Mariano Campus officially launched its 2026 National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC) during a vibrant kick-off program held at the campus grounds.
This year’s celebration follows the national multi-year theme, “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society,” with the powerful 2026 sub-theme: “Lead Like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”
The 2026 sub-theme draws inspiration from the pre-colonial Babaylans—the revered spiritual leaders and healers who held significant authority and influence in early Filipino society. By invoking this heritage, the ISU-San Mariano community aims to underscore that leadership is a fundamental part of the Filipino woman’s identity, rooted in wisdom, compassion, and community service.
“To lead like a Babaylan is to lead with heart and courage,” remarked the campus GAD (Gender and Development) Coordinator during the opening ceremony. “We are here not just to celebrate how far we’ve come, but to empower every Juana to reclaim her space as a leader in her own right.”
The program was marked by a sea of purple as faculty, staff, and students donned the official color of the movement. Key highlights of the launch included:
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Ceremonial Purple Ribbon Pinning: A symbolic gesture of solidarity and commitment to the advocacy of women’s rights and gender fairness.
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Solidarity Walk & Flag Ceremony: The morning began with a unified march around the campus, followed by the singing of the “All-Women Cast” version of the Lupang Hinirang.
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Pledge of Commitment: Led by campus officials, the ISU-San Mariano community recited a collective pledge to foster a gender-responsive environment within the university.
The kick-off is only the beginning. Throughout March, ISU-San Mariano will host a series of activities designed to educate and inspire, including:
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#PurpleWednesdays: A month-long solidarity challenge where the campus community is encouraged to wear purple every Wednesday.
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Learning Sessions: Seminars focusing on “Women in Leadership” and “Gender-Responsive Governance.”
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Creative Competitions: Students will showcase their talents in poster-making, essay-writing, and mobile photography, all centered on the Babaylan theme.
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Wellness Corner: A dedicated space for women’s health and wellness programs to be held in mid-March.
The Isabela State University – San Mariano Campus remains steadfast in its mission to be a “University for People and Nature,” ensuring that every woman—be she a student, a professor, or a member of the community—is empowered to lead, decide, and thrive.
#NWMC2026 #LeadLikeTheBabaylans #OneISU #ISUSanMariano
