31/03/2026
NBI HONORS "MODERN-DAY BABAYLANS"; RECOGNIZES 92 FEMALE LEADERS IN NATIONAL WOMEN’S MONTH CELEBRATION
PASAY CITY, Philippines – The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), led by Director Atty. Melvin A. Matibag, officially joined the nation in celebrating National Women’s Month, adopting the 2026 theme: “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society – Lead Like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”
Through its Gender and Development - Focal Point System (GAD-FPS), the Bureau launched a series of high-impact initiatives aimed at empowering its female workforce and reinforcing a culture of safety and professional excellence.
The celebration commenced with the NBI’s active participation in the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) kick-off held at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on March 06, 2026. Following this national launch, the Bureau rolled out a comprehensive set of activities for both Manila-based and regional office personnel. These efforts included the distribution of freebies to all female employees and the conduct of vital wellness seminars. These educational forums addressed frequently overlooked health concerns such as hyperacidity, gallstones, and HIV awareness, while also providing critical legal orientations on the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313) and the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act (RA 9262).
A significant highlight of the month-long observance was the formal recognition of 92 female NBI leaders, celebrated as the primary driving forces of change within the Bureau. The event featured Honorable Rene Ann Lourdes Matibag, Representative of the First District of Laguna, as the Guest Speaker. In her address, she emphasized that women were never intended to be secondary and have always been meant to lead. Demonstrating her commitment to the cause, Representative Matibag further supported the Bureau’s female employees by facilitating the distribution of free HPV vaccines. The program was further enriched by a lecture from Retired Justice Helen Sandoval-Gutierrez, who spoke extensively on the integration of leadership and integrity in women’s empowerment.
In his closing remarks, Director Atty. Melvin A. Matibag reaffirmed the NBI’s unwavering dedication to fostering an inclusive and progressive environment. He pledged that the Bureau will continue to build a workplace where women are safe, respected, and fully supported as they lead with strength, integrity, and compassion.