PNP breaks ground for Women's Month with Stiletto Run and more
By Rhaydz B. Barcia
The Philippine National Police inaugurated the Women’s Month celebration with a unique stiletto race, challenging male cops to step into women's shoes for the first time. Participants humorously noted that undergoing police training was easier than navigating a high heel.
The stiletto run is a highlight of the PNP Women’s Month activities, symbolizing men's solidarity in recognizing women as trailblazers. Bicol police regional director PBGen. Andre P. Dizon emphasized the event's lighthearted nature, intending to teach male cops "how to be in women’s shoes."
Dizon underscored women's remarkable contributions in sensitive positions within the police force, highlighting the leadership of Police Col. Lian Van de Velde, the first female provincial police director in Bicol.
With a goal of 20% female representation in key positions, Dizon mentioned that female cops are strategically placed based on their expertise, especially in handling cases involving women and children facing domestic violence.
As of now, there are 15 lady officers serving as police chiefs across the Bicol Region. The 2024 National Women’s Month Celebration theme, “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patunayan,” emphasizes recognizing women's capabilities for societal progress.
Throughout March, PRO5 has organized various activities to highlight women's invaluable contributions. The 2024 celebration builds on the theme “We for gender equality and inclusive society,” introduced in 2023, renewing the commitment to fostering networks for gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Within the camp, booths displaying products from local farmers and small businesses promote economic empowerment and gender equality, aligning with the overarching theme of the celebration.
Male cops wearing purple t-shirts, stilleto shoes and girls’ clothings join the stilleto race as the PNP Bicol kick off the women’s month celebration on Friday here. Rhaydz B. Barcia