The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver joins the nation and the global Filipino community in celebrating the 2026 National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC)!
This month-long observance is rooted in Philippine law, mandated by Proclamation No. 227 s. 1988, which designates March as “Women’s Role in History Month,” and Republic Act No. 6949 (1990), which declares March 8 as “National Women’s Day.” These laws ensure that the contributions of Filipinas to nation-building, justice, and heritage are never forgotten.
THE 2026 THEME: “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipina!” Under the multi-year campaign “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society,” this year’s sub-theme honors the Babaylan—our pre-colonial women leaders who served as healers, mediators, and spiritual anchors of our society.
To lead like a Babaylan is to lead with:
- Wisdom that honors our heritage;
- Empathy that centers the community;
- Courage that challenges inequality.
As the Philippines chairs ASEAN in 2026, we spotlight the Filipina as a transformative leader in governance and peacebuilding—not just at home, but across the region and here in British Columbia.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM POST THIS MARCH: The Consulate General in Vancouver is proud to spearhead a series of activities:
- Digital Literacy: Highlighting PCW library collections on Gender-Responsive Governance.
- Visibility: Participating in #PurpleWednesdays and requesting the purple illumination of the Sails of Light at Canada Place.
- Female Entrepreneurship, Part 2: Back due to public demand, the Consulate General will be featuring exceptional Filipinas who have made a mark in Canada because of their entrepreneurial grit and resilience!
Join us as we celebrate the modern-day Babaylans in our community. Let us work together toward a future where every Filipina is empowered to lead, heal, and inspire.
