This Women’s Month 2026, the Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) of the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) joins in celebrating women’s empowerment and leadership by participating in a prestigious plenary session on the 4th International Conference on Women Empowerment & Leadership in AANR (WELA) 2026 with a theme “Inclusive Leadership and Foresight for Sustainable Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources.” This conference will be held on 17-19 March 2026 to be hosted by the Cavite State University (CvSU).

Assoc. Prof. Finaflor F. Taylan, FMDS Dean and project leader, is set to deliver a plenary talk on 17 March 2026, to highlight the role of women in the Philippine’s permaculture as part of their on-going Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-funded project titled “Participatory Approach in Assessing and Promoting Women-led Permaculture among Selected Permaculture Sites in the AANR-Sectors in the Philippines.” This session will champion women’s voices in sustainable development, fostering innovation in agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sectors in the Philippines’ context.

Dean Taylan’s participation in this conference exemplifies the capability of women to be visible, heard, and recognized in platforms where we once sought to join. This upcoming event not only demonstrates women empowerment but supports other Sustainable Development Goals which Dean Taylan’s presentation aims to fulfill:

  • SDG 4: Quality Education
  • SDG 5: Gender Equality
  • SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
  • SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
  • SDG 13: Climate Action
  • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Come join us to celebrate Women’s Month with this paid hybrid conference by visiting the CvSU Facebook Page.

Written by: John Albert B. Casin and Raizza Anna Alforja • Edited by: Larry N. Cruz

Sustainable Development Goals