By Sr. Ma. Francia Blando, RGS
The Ministry to Women in
the Diocese of Iligan started with advocacy work and training and educating
grassroots women leaders in the parishes on their rights and dignity as human
being and as women. Several parishes
responded by sending leaders to become part of the core group in the Diocese. Until now, they continue to form a stronghold
of women active in their own parishes, very much aware that as advocates
against Violence against Women and Children (VAWC) and Trafficking in Persons (TIP),
this is a serious response and commitment.
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This year, the focus is on Anti TIP symposiums in all diocesan schools. A team of lay mission partners were trained and goes around meeting students and teachers as well. The students, the possible victims, are being empowered to sight initial signs of trafficking. In this symposium, students, teachers and the ministry become partners by affixing their signatures as they pledge and commit to fight trafficking in their school and community. |
The work continues to
expand but the ministry needs financial stability to sustain this mission.
The Talyer sa Magbalantay is indeed the realization of this dream. Taking its Vision, we desire “God’s promise of fullness of life for
all...transformed and empowered society to attain justice and peace.”
And so, last September 8, 2014, the workshop for abaca bag making and other accessories was inaugurated and blessed by our beloved Bishop Most Rev. Elenito Galido. Without any hesitation, he outright had this workshop built after we discussed with him this noble project, especially for Women Sendong survivors in Deus Caritas.
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| Blessing of the Talyer sa Magbalantay with Bishop Galido, Sr Franz, and Friends and Good Shepherd Mission Partners |
And so we continue to
dream . . . and work towards its fulfilment!
dream . . . and work towards its fulfilment!
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| Abaca Bags made by the women advocates in Iligan | During the blessing of the Talyer sa Magbalantay |