In a powerful display of unity, thousands of young Dagupeña students and youth leaders marched with pride along De Venecia Highway this morning, March 3, showcasing girl power in the “Tindig Kababaihan: Walk of Recognition” that kicked off this year’s celebration of Girl Child Week 2026.
Following the ceremonial march, participants from various schools, organizations, and partner agencies gathered at the Jimmy L. Fernandez Center (CSI Stadia) for the opening program, carrying the call to action: Dream. Inspire. Empower.
Philippine National Red Cross – Pangasinan Chapter Board Member and former city councilor Maybelyn Dela Cruz-Fernandez, wife of incumbent councilor Michael Fernandez, served as the keynote speaker, stressing the true meaning of empowerment as standing together, celebrating each other’s victories, and turning individual success into collective progress.
“We are not competitors here; we are each other’s army. When one of us wins, the ceiling cracks wide open for all of us.”
Fernandez also warned participants about the dangers of digital abuse and online bullying, urging them to stay vigilant and speak up.
“Your silence is not a shield, it’s a cage. Do not face it alone. Report niyo. Kung online man ‘yan, i-block niyo, sabihan niyo agad yung magulang niyo or teacher ninyo o kahit sinong matanda na pinagkakatiwalaan ninyo.” she added.
Mayor Belen Fernandez expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helped make the event a success and reassured the public that the city continues to uplift and empower young Dagupeñas.
“Bilang inyong Mayor, ipinagmamalaki kong ipahayag na ang Lungsod ng Dagupan ay patuloy na nagsusulong ng mga programa at inisyatiba na nagbibigay-lakas sa ating mga kabataang babae. Naniniwala tayo na kapag ang isang batang babae ay nabigyan ng oportunidad at suporta, ang buong komunidad ay umuunlad.” the local chief executive stated.
The opening ceremony was followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, formally launching the exhibit, activity booths, and service stations prepared by partner organizations, local government offices, and private sponsors.
The celebration also featured a series of learning sessions led by the city’s female councilors Christel Hilary “Tala” Paras, Danielle “Danee” Francine Canto and Dra. Jalice “Jaja” Cayabyab, focusing on relationships, adolescent health and overall wellness. Complementing these talks were interactive activities, including oral health care sessions, poster-making contests, self-defense training, and a dance competition.
In attendance were Vice Mayor Dean Bryan “BK” Kua, Councilors Atty. Joey Tamayo, Engr. Karlos Reyna IV, Marcelino Fernandez and Bradley Benavides, together with the Department of Education Schools Division Office led by SDS Dr. Rowena Banzon, Dagupan City Police Office (DCPO) led by City Director Arnold Solomon, Sangguniang Kabataan Federation, Girls Scouts of the Philippines – Dagupan Council, department heads, teachers and learners from different schools in the city.
The festivities will continue tomorrow, March 4, as Dagupan City celebrates National Women’s Month at the same venue, highlighting women’s leadership, empowerment, and ongoing initiatives for youth and community development.
