Sashing Ceremony Held to Introduce Bb. Agraryo 2024

QUEZON CITY— The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) proudly held the sashing ceremony for the Bb. Agraryo 2024 pageant on Sept. 11 at the Emancipation Lounge of the DAR Central Office in Quezon City.

The event marks the beginning of a unique journey celebrating the contributions and empowerment of DAR women employees.

The Bb. Agraryo 2024 is a beauty personality search designed to recognize the vital roles played by women within DAR in promoting gender equality, land tenure improvement, and agrarian justice. The pageant is themed "Ang Babae sa Panahon ng Repormang Agraryo at Pagbabago," emphasizing the importance of women’s active participation in agrarian reform and their essential contributions to rural development.

DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III, who personally presented the sashes to the candidates, expressed his support for the event.

"The Bb. Agraryo 2024 pageant embodies our commitment to empowering women and acknowledging their significant roles in agrarian reform. This platform not only celebrates their beauty and talent but also highlights their dedication to advancing gender equality and supporting rural communities. We are proud to support this initiative and look forward to seeing how these remarkable women contribute to our mission," Estrella said.

DAR Undersecretary Rowena Nina Taduran, head of the Gender and Development (GAD) National Steering Committee, also shared her insights on the pageant:

"The Bb. Agraryo 2024 is more than just a beauty pageant; it is a testament to the incredible impact that women can have on our society. By celebrating our women employees, we shine a spotlight on their dedication to creating positive change within our communities and advancing agrarian reform. This event is an opportunity to inspire and empower women to continue their vital work in promoting gender equality and rural development."

Taduran said the winner of the pageant will also be named DAR's Ambassadress for Agrarian Reform, representing the department in promoting gender equality, women's empowerment, and rural development initiatives.

The pageant categories include Sportswear, Regional/Festival Costume, Talent, Philippine Terno, and Evening Gown,