The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) proudly joins the nationwide observance of the 2026 National Women’s Month through the campaign “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society,” under the sub-theme “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas” a commitment to advancing women’s leadership and strengthening Gender and Development (GAD) initiatives across the country’s port system.
Across its Port Management Offices (PMOs), the PPA amplified its gender advocacy through coordinated activities that promote women’s empowerment and gender equality within the maritime and port sectors.
In Davao, the agency launched a GAD Corner alongside a symbolic lighting ceremony and wellness activities for personnel. In Batangas, employees participated in the “Takbo at Serbisyo para kay Juana” Fun Run, organized in partnership with the Kalipunan ng Liping Pilipina and the Batangas City Social Welfare and Development Office.
PMO Agusan also joined the regional kick-off celebration held at Caraga State University, which featured a motorcade, opening program, and a learning session on gender-fair language facilitated by the Commission on Human Rights. Meanwhile, regional celebrations honoring Filipina heroes were conducted in Misamis Oriental/Cagayan de Oro, while solidarity activities were held in SOCSARGEN.
Other PMOs likewise mounted their own initiatives, including leadership lectures on women empowerment in Negros Oriental/Siquijor; film screenings highlighting women’s resilience in Lanao del Norte/Iligan and Masbate; awareness campaigns and banner installations in Zamboanga del Norte; community engagement activities in General Santos City; and small appreciation activities for women passengers in Surigao.
Anchoring this strengthened commitment is the official launch of PPA’s Gender and Development (GAD) logo, which symbolizes the agency’s mandate to supervise, control, regulate, construct, maintain, and operate port facilities essential to safe and competitive maritime operations.
The logo’s elements reflect the core values of the program: the lighthouse signifies guidance and protection; the sun and its rays represent awareness and the breaking of barriers; the rainbow reflects recognition of diverse contributions; the North Star embodies direction and stability; and the two human profiles illustrate partnership, shared responsibility, and mutual respect.
Further reinforcing its advocacy for inclusivity, the agency also introduced its new mascot, Engineer Tala, a female port engineer who embodies competence, resilience, and leadership in the maritime sector. She joins the agency’s well-known mascot Pepe Asensado, presenting a more inclusive and representative image of the organization.
Through strengthened policies, inclusive programs, and sustained engagement across its port system, the PPA continues to steer the maritime sector toward a future where leadership opportunities are accessible to all, ensuring that progress sails forward with equality and inclusivity for all genders.
