Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III on Wednesday honored Filipino women as modern-day “babaylan,” recognizing their leadership, strength and vital role in nation-building as the country marks National Women’s Month 2026.
Dy said the babaylan – respected in pre-colonial Philippine society as women spiritual leaders and community guides – symbolizes wisdom, courage and responsibility, qualities that continue to define Filipinas today.
“Ngayong National Women’s Month 2026, alalahanin natin ang lakas na matagal nang nananahan sa bawat Pilipina – ang diwa ng Babaylan: lider na may karunungan, malasakit, tapang, at pananagutan sa komunidad (This National Women’s Month, we remember the strength that has long dwelt in every Filipina – the spirit of the babaylan: a leader with wisdom, concern, courage and responsibility in the community),” Dy said in a video message.
The Speaker from Isabela said the same spirit is reflected in the everyday work of Filipino women across sectors.
“Ang diwang ito ay buhay sa bawat ina na lumalaban para sa kinabukasan ng kanyang anak, sa bawat babaeng guro na humuhubog ng pangarap, sa bawat babaeng lider sa pamahalaan at sa iba’t ibang sektor (This spirit lives in every mother who fights for the future of his child, in every woman teacher who shapes dreams, in every woman leader in government and various sectors),” Dy said.
Dy said women’s leadership makes development more inclusive and society more resilient.
He added that Congress recognizes the role of women as partners in advancing reforms and national progress.
The House chief, however, acknowledged that many women still struggle to be heard and given opportunities.
“Kaya malinaw po ang ating panawagan: walang maiiwan (That’s why our call is clear: no one should be left behind),” he said.
He vowed that Congress will continue pushing measures that empower women, especially those in marginalized sectors, like farm workers, members of indigenous peoplesand persons with disability.
He also stressed that empowering women is a continuing responsibility, not just during Women’s Month.
In concluding his message, Dy urged Filipino women to recognize the strength of their voices and leadership.
“Sa bawat Pilipina, ito ang aking mensahe: huwag mong maliitin ang iyong tinig. Ikaw ang bukal ng lakas. Ikaw ang lider ng ating panahon. Ikaw ang makabagong Babaylan. Dahil sa’yo, ang kinabukasan ay mas makatarungan, mas inklusibo, at tunay na para sa lahat (To every Filipina, this is my message: don’t belittle your voice. You are the spring where strength flows. You are the leader of our time. You are the modern-day Babaylan. Because of you, the future is more just, inclusive and truly for all).” (PNA)