MANILA – The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) on Thursday vowed to continue advocating safe spaces for women in the housing sector.

In time of the culmination of Women’s Month, the DHSUD feted three “deserving women leaders” of homeowners’ associations (HOAs) — as recognition “to their notable contributions and remarkable achievements” as partners of the housing sector in community and nation-building.

“As we recognize the women leaders from homeowners’ associations (HOAs) who exemplify the values and characteristics of an empowered ‘Juana’. They serve as a great example of how women initiate and create relevant change in their communities and serve as vital pillars in community development,” DHSUD Secretary Eduardo del Rosario said during the virtual awarding event.

The “Natatanging HOAna” awardees are Gloria Palowan of the Idogan HOA, Inc. in Luzon; Mildred dela Peña of the Rosal HOA, Inc. in Visayas; and Cirila Balatero of the Sunshineville HOA, Inc. in Mindanao.

Del Rosario said the DHSUD will continue to uphold continuous efforts in promoting gender and development policy in its operations.

“I am delighted to report that, so far, no harassment case has ever been filed before the committee. This only shows that we have succeeded in creating safe spaces for the women in our department, who, in fact, dominate our workforce,” Del Rosario said, noting that 425 of DHSUD’s 741 personnel are women.

“It has truly been a meaningful month where we have seen and recognized the positive impact of women not only in DHSUD but also in our communities,” he added.

The recognition activity, which was spearheaded by the DHSUD Homeowners Association and Community Development Bureau, seeks to promote and empower women to be leaders and influencers in the community.

It also recognizes the efforts of these women in addressing HOA-related issues and increasing the capacity of HOAs to promote, protect and fulfill the rights of women.

With this, del Rosario called on the entire DHSUD workforce “to continue recognizing the rising unique needs of women in the workplace.”

The Philippines celebrates National Women’s Month every March.

In support, DHSUD has conducted month-long activities including online forums and training, beauty and wellness day, social media, and advocate Purple Tuesday campaigns for women. (PNA)