The National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) kicked off its celebration of the National Women’s Month on 08 March 2023, which coincided with the observance of the International Women’s Day.

NDCP officials, faculty, students, and staff, all in their purple shirts, participated in the activity.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Diana Jean P Corpuz of the Academic Affairs Division of the College talked about the color purple, the celebration’s color theme recognized by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) as a symbol of justice and dignity. She underscored the need to eradicate injustice and promote equal opportunity for all genders.

The NDCP President, Lt. Gen. Ferdinand M Cartujano PAF (Ret), in his video-recorded message, lauded the College for the strides it has taken over the years in promoting gender equality and women empowerment. He cited previous activities that were instrumental in advancing the Gender and Development (GAD) agenda of the College, such as the launching of the very first NDCP GAD Resource Handbook and the various seminar workshops. He then encouraged everyone to actively participate and support the upcoming GAD-related activities of NDCP.

Through various publications, activities, and engagements, the NDCP has been an exponent of the GAD advocacy in the larger defense community. Under the leadership of LtGen Cartujano, the College has been actively promoting and mainstreaming GAD into its functions and processes.