By: Sinamar Kate Tilado
“Women are bound for more than the deep-seated stereotypes in our society. With courage and dedication, nothing is impossible for every woman to achieve.”
These words echoed across the University of the Cordilleras – College of Criminal Justice Education (UC CCJE) Legarda Campus on March 31, 2025, as students, faculty, and staff gathered to celebrate National Women’s Month. In line with the national theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat sa Bagong Lipunan,” the event served as both a tribute to women’s invaluable contributions to society and a rallying call for continued gender equity and empowerment.
The highlight of the program was a 15-minute inspirational message delivered by Dr. Debbie Karyle Arquero, who reignited a spark in every listener with her empowering reflections on the journey of womanhood. Her message emphasized three foundational elements for achieving one’s dreams: passion, persistence, and the importance of a supportive community.
Pursuing one’s goals begins with passion — the driving force that inspires purposeful action and commitment to excellence. Yet passion alone is not enough. Persistence is what carries a person forward through challenges, disappointments, and moments of doubt. It is the steady resolve to keep going even when motivation fades. Alongside these, having a supportive environment is essential. Mentors, peers, and guides provide not only encouragement but also the wisdom and strength needed to grow, especially during times of failure or uncertainty. Together, these elements form a foundation for meaningful and lasting achievement.
The program also highlighted the unique challenges and victories of women in the field of criminal justice, an arena historically dominated by men. Yet in the CCJE department, women are now emerging as change-makers and leaders, actively contributing to building safer, fairer communities.
To foster a deeper sense of solidarity and celebration, participants wore shades of pink and purple—a visual representation of unity in support of gender equality. Creative tokens, such as stickers and bookmarks bearing empowering messages, were distributed during the event. Adding flair to the celebration, women from the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Unit delivered an intermission performance, showcasing strength and discipline.
As the event celebrated the strength and resilience of women, it also reflected the broader global mission of the University of the Cordilleras to promote inclusive development. The celebration aligned with the principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5 on Gender Equality, which champions the empowerment of all women and girls by ensuring equal rights and opportunities in every sphere of life. It also supported Goal 10 on Reduced Inequalities by addressing systemic barriers and uplifting marginalized groups, including women in male-dominated fields such as criminal justice. Furthermore, the event embodied the spirit of Goal 16 on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, by fostering an inclusive academic environment that upholds justice, integrity, and equity. Through this celebration, the UC CCJE community reaffirmed its role in shaping a society that values gender justice, human dignity, and shared progress.
As the nation continues to navigate toward justice and meaningful change, the UC CCJE community proudly stands at the forefront, committed to shaping future women leaders who are bold, resilient, and ready to carry the torch of empowerment wherever they go.
