TACLOBAN CITY (CIO) — To highlight the important role that men play in society, the local government of Tacloban under Mayor Alfred S. Romualdez through the City Population Office conducted a forum on Monday, November 18, as part of the celebration of International Men’s Day.

Dubbed as ‘KATROPA TRAIL’, and spearheaded by the City Gender and Development Council together with the Kalalakin-an Tangkod ha Responsibilidad ngan Obligasyon ha Pamilya (KATROPA), the said activity aims to educate men and boys here on the context of gender equality as well as responsible parenting.

According to City Population Office Head Cielito Esquibel, not only women need to be empowered, men likewise should have their spotlight.

“This day is for them, as this will feature the role of boys and men in our society. At the same time, this will also address the concerns on gender-based violence,” she said.

Aside from the interactive lectures, free health and wellness services courtesy of City Health Office (CHO) and Comprehensive Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Program (CLEP) were also offered to the male City Hall employees and some uniformed services such as Bureau of Fire Protection, Tacloban City Police, among others.

Among the free services given were manicure and pedicure, haircut, massage therapy, blood typing, and blood pressure taking.

Meanwhile, Executive Assistant Atty. Christian De Dios who represented Mayor Romualdez attended the said activity.

Every 19th of November, International Men’s Day is commemorated worldwide to shine a spotlight on men who are making a positive difference and raise awareness on issues that men face on a global scale. – C. Merin/CIO

Photo: A. Alamos/CIO