By: James Murillo Elaco
The local government unit (LGU) of Cagayan de Oro City thru the Gender and Development (GAD) Office headed by Mayor Rolando “Klarex” A. Uy and GAD Co-Chairperson, Shiela B. Lumbatan, sponsors and organizes a live free concert with local bands at Duaw Park Cafe. The place exudes vibrant music and solidarity show since March 08 to 21, 2024, from 6pm-9pm every day. The event is an ecstatic manifestation during 2024 National Women’s Month under the theme “LIPUNANG PATASSABAGONGPILIPINASKakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan!
This musical extravaganza aims to achieve beyond mere entertainment and sought to reach out to young musicians to raise awareness about social issues affecting women. Ms. Sol Mosqueda, who works as a Technical Consultant of the GAD Office, said there is a need for creative messaging to increase awareness on the issues and concerns of women.
According to her insisted, “We need to communicate through various art forms, singing, dancing, and visual arts to raise awareness and debunk stereotypes.”
The long-term goal of the office is for young musicians and artists in the city to rally behind this call to respond and help the government in preventing cases of violence against women and children. Data shows that “many women are victims of violence more than men,” as per Ms. Mosqueda, this highlights the need of empowering local bands to help in the advocacy through artistic expressions.
LGUCDO-GADOffice takes responsibility of the Women’s Month line-up of activities one of these is the Duaw Park Cafe with local bands to amplify women’s voices. A student Lana Louisa Zape who attended that concert acknowledged this initiative by saying “I like this event because it raises awareness especially among us students about the social issues faced by women,” she said with zestiness while adding “I’m really thankful that LGU organized this event” which was echoed by many participants.
Moreover than serving as just a stage for musical performances, the concert became a place where people gather together to listen to music they enjoy most while indulging themselves with delicious food as well as celebrating friendship ties. It has an atmosphere dedicated to unity and celebration where conversations flowed freely and connections were made. A safe space for all.
March as the Women’s Month is celebrated annually to honor the contributions and achievements of women across the globe. LGU CDO opened officially last March 8 during the International Women’s Day (IWD) and ends on March 21 for this Duaw Park Cafe activity to serve as a reminder for the community of the existing struggle for gender parity and collective action required in attaining it. (JME/OB
