The UN Women Philippines, together with Connected Women, Zamboanga-Basilan Integrated Development Alliance Inc. (ZABIDA), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and Nagdilaab Foundation Inc., paid a courtesy visit to Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman on March 23. The visit was part of their field activities in Basilan under the Endangering New Digital Opportunities for Women (ENDOW) in BARMM project, implemented through the Joint Program Canada “Empowering Women for Sustainable Peace in the BARMM.”
During the meeting, updates on the ENDOW BARMM initiative were discussed, along with ongoing AIDA-related efforts in the city, and potential areas for continued collaboration to advance women’s economic participation. The delegates expressed that they had many insights and best practices they hoped to learn from Mayor Turabin-Hataman that could be replicated in their own initiatives.
Mayor Turabin-Hataman also shared the city’s initiatives supporting women’s livelihoods and economic empowerment, highlighting ongoing programs and projects that provide opportunities, skills development, and resources to help women thrive in their communities. She expressed her support for the project and encouraged continued collaboration to empower women in the region.
Also present were UN Women Philippines Country Program Coordinator Ma. Rosalyn Mesina, Connected Women Head Ruth Owen, UNDP Project Analyst Jazelle Lim, ZABIDA Executive Director Espie Hupida, Nagdilaab Foundation Inc. Executive Director Miriam Suacito, and other representatives. CIO/GAD Focal Person Mendry-Ann Lim also attended the meeting.
