31/03/2026
AFPCES Celebrates National Women's Month 2026
The Armed Forces of the Philippines Commissary and Exchange Service, marked the National Women's Month on March 27, 2026, through the program organized by the AFPCES Gender and Development (GAD) Office, led by MAJ Antonette Q Sibayan (FS) PA.
The program commenced with the opening remarks of LTC Vanessa Angela S Samudio FS (GSC) PA, Deputy Commander of AFPCES, who highlighted the leadership and contributions of Filipino women, drawing inspiration from the legacy of the babaylan — the revered women leaders of pre-colonial Philippine society — and their enduring role as mediators and pillars of strength in times of conflict.
Certificates and prizes were subsequently awarded to the winners of the Essay Writing Contest: Jan Russel Juanite, Emmar Mendoza, Emily Lamayo, and Ikea Nexus Marbeda. The Poster Making Contest winners were also recognized: Princess Elizabeth S. Suarez and Jay-R Napire.
The program also honored the Outstanding Female Employees of the Month: Sally Respondo, Andre Cecil Grimaldo, and Bernadette Robina. Tokens of appreciation were likewise extended to all women of AFPCES.
The program was closed by AFPCES Commander and General Manager COL Ben C Domingo III PA (MNSA), who referenced the remarkable women including former president Corazon Aquino, who excelled in their field and gave historical significance in women’s contribution to the society.
More than a celebration, the event stood as a testament to AFPCES’ unwavering commitment to the women who serve alongside them — a reminder that their strength, resilience, and leadership are not just acknowledged once a year, but valued every single day.
