QUEZON CITY—The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has initiated the ‘Binibining Agraryo 2024’ pageant, a program designed to highlight the pivotal role of its female personnel in promoting agrarian reform and gender equality within rural development. This move seeks to empower women and acknowledge their indispensable contributions to the sector.
According to the Philippines News Agency, Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III, who announced the launch at the Emancipation Lounge of the DAR Central Office on Wednesday, emphasized that the pageant is a testament to the department’s commitment to empowering women. “The Bb. Agraryo 2024 pageant embodies our dedication to empowering women and recognizing their significant roles in agrarian reform,” said Estrella.
The pageant, themed “Ang Babae sa Panahon ng Repormang Agraryo at Pagbabago (Women in the Age of Agrarian Reform and Change),” will feature various competitive categories including sports wear, regional/festival costume, talent, Philippine terno, and evening gown. Participants will also present their ‘Sulong Agraryo’ advocacy projects, showcasing their commitment to advancing agrarian justice and supporting rural communities.
Representatives from different DAR offices and regions are participating, including figures such as Cathyrine Lardizabal from the Legal Affairs Office, Trisha Mae Lavilla from the Support Services Office, and participants from all the administrative regions of the Philippines. Each candidate will represent their unique regions, bringing diverse perspectives and advocacies to the forefront of the pageant.
The grand finale of the pageant is scheduled for October 27 at the DAR Gymnasium in Quezon City, where the participants will have the opportunity to advocate for their causes and demonstrate how empowered women can effect substantial changes in the agrarian sector.