In Barangay Progreso Este in Odiongan, Romblon, a group of women is redefining roles and proving that farming isn’t just for men.
The Progreso Este Women’s Association (PEWA), composed entirely of local women, has taken up the plow and the harvest basket to contribute to their households through agriculture.
In a recent Talakayan organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Romblon, in partnership with the Romblon Media Association, members of the association shared their story of empowerment through farming.
“Even though we are women, we did not let that stop us from forming a group to work on our farms and help cover our daily expenses,” said Analiza Venus, vice president of the PEWA.
The women plant corn, cassava, peanuts, and a variety of vegetables that are sold in the local market. Their families are their main source of inspiration, motivating them to work hard under the sun and till the land to make ends meet.
Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. The local government of Odiongan has recognized PEWA for establishing a successful communal garden, which now serves as both a source of livelihood and a model of community cooperation.
The association is also among the beneficiaries of various support programs from both local and national government agencies.
According to PEWA president Elena Casidsid, they received vegetable seeds and farming tools from the Department of Agriculture (DA), along with irrigation equipment. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) also provided them with a plowing machine to support their farming operations.
“Malaking tulong sa amin ang suporta ng gobyerno. Hindi lang gamit ang naibigay sa amin—tinuruan din kami kung paano pangalagaan at gamitin nang tama ang kinikita ng aming asosasyon,” Casidsid said.
Other government agencies have helped the women learn how to manage their earnings, ensuring that their farming ventures translate into sustainable income and growth.
Casidsid actively encourages other women in their community to step outside traditional roles and explore their potential. They believe that being a woman should not be seen as a limitation and that women can make significant contributions not only to their families but to the broader community through hard work and collaboration.
“Nakikita namin ang aming sarili bilang inspirasyon sa iba. Kung nagagawa naming mga babae, magagawa din ng iba,” Casidsid told PIA Romblon. (PJF/PIA MIMAROPA-Romblon)
