The Negros Occidental provincial government provided free health and wellness services to its female employees on Monday as part of the observance of the 2025 National Women’s Month.

Provincial Gender and Development Focal Point System action officer Marie June Pavillar-Castro said they collaborated with the Provincial Health Office (PHO), Teresita L. Jalandoni Provincial Hospital and other partners to conduct the activity.

“The PHO organized this health and wellness event to raise awareness and inform the women employees of the various programs and services of the PHO, and the importance for women to take care of their health and body,” she said.

At least 256 employees availed of services such as blood pressure monitoring, urine and blood sugar screenings, safe motherhood advocacy, family planning services, mental health counseling, pneumonia vaccines, and haircut and massage services at the Provincial Capitol Social Hall here.

The Provincial Alliance of Capitol Employees sponsored the haircut and massage services, while the Technology and Livelihood Development Center and Capitol Government Employees Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative provided meals.

“We’re happy to see women employees and some men availing of the various services. We thank the volunteers,” Pavillar-Castro said.

In his message, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said he sees the annual celebration of Women’s Month as “the best opportunity to reflect on the strides we have made toward gender equality while reaffirming our commitment to empowering women.”

“Our theme, ‘Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,’ recognizes and celebrates the critical role of women across all sectors of society,” he added.

Lacson acknowledged the Provincial Council for Women, Provincial Social Welfare and Development, and Provincial GAD Focal Point System for their “dedication and assistance in helping the provincial government realize our programs for the advancement of women.” (PNA)