WFWP Philippines 31st Anniversary Celebration and GWPN Culmination Program
Written By: WFWP Philippines
The Women's Federation for World Peace - Philippines (WFWP Philippines) concluded the month of October with a vibrant celebration of its 31st founding anniversary on the 31st day of the month at the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Peace Embassy. This momentous occasion was the culmination program of the Global Women Peace Network, with the theme, “Empowering Women as Peace-builders and Leaders in the Family and Society.” The event's highlight included the recognition of GWPN global friends and partners, and it drew the participation of 120 local women leaders representing various women's organizations in the National Capital Region.
The program commenced with a solemn prayer, setting a reflective tone for the day's proceedings. Professor Angel Lorenzana, Vice-President of WFWP Philippines, extended a warm welcome and delivered the opening remarks. Mrs. Theresia Kittel, WFWP Senior Advisor, and Mrs. Almera Grace Mayo, President of WFWP Philippines, shared their insights on the topic, “The Roles of Mothers in Raising Patriotic Youth for Nation-building.” Mrs. Kittel emphasized the importance of maintaining purity before marriage and fidelity within marriage, along with imparting six essential empowerment skills for wives and mothers to foster happy and healthy family lives. According to her, these aspects are crucial in nurturing a sense of patriotism. Mrs. Mayo, in her address, centered her message around a profound quote from the founder: “History is calling for reconciliation, compassion, love, service, and sacrifice. Today's problems cannot be solved by the logic of power, but only by the logic of love.” She stressed that women serve as the bedrock of family stability and that a healthy family is the foundation of peace. She concluded her message by inviting everyone to join the global movement of women who are taking the lead in saving the world through the power of true love, which she believes women possess uniquely.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Robert S. Kittel, Director of Education, Universal Peace Federation, Asia Pacific. Dr. Kittel underscored the pivotal role of women in the family, where they lead in nurturing their families, and how this role resonates throughout society.
Global friends and partners were acknowledged with certificates and symbolic pins. Additionally, three outstanding women leaders, who had made remarkable contributions to the women's sector and society in their respective fields, were awarded the title of Global Women Peace Ambassadors. These remarkable women were Hon. Gloria Asaral Arellano, Ms. Erlinda S. Marcelino and Ms. Patria P. Cabasal. Moreover, two distinguished women leaders were presented with certificates of appointment. Mrs. Juvy V. Delmonte was appointed as the Regional President of the WFWP Philippines National Capital Region, while Mrs. Rosalyn Azul-Condat took on the position of President of MHN Montalban.
A commemorative cake-cutting ceremony followed, led by the officers of WFWP Philippines and the invited speakers, while everyone in attendance joined in singing a Happy Anniversary song.
Mrs. Mariflor Gavaran, a Board Member of WFWP Philippines, extended her congratulations to the awardees and expressed gratitude to all for celebrating with the Women's Federation for World Peace - Philippines on its 31st anniversary, which has been dedicated to empowering women and youth. She eloquently summarized the messages delivered by the speakers in her closing speech.
The participants left the event inspired and energized to move forward after absorbing the wisdom shared by the speakers. They came together for a fellowship meal, fostering new connections and expanding their network of like-minded individuals.
