TAGUIG CITY, Metro Manila — The PNOC celebrated the 2026 National Women’s Month, underscoring the importance of health and the significant contributions of women in the community through a series of health talks, screenings, and outreach initiatives.
With the full support of PNOC President and CEO and GAD Focal Point System Chairperson, Ma. Cristina Sheila C. Cabaraban, PNOC conducted an outreach program and film showing in one of its host communities in Taguig, while employees likewise benefited from health talks and screening services organized within the organization.
On March 18, 2026, PNOC, in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), brought Lakbay Sine to 100 Grade 9 students in Kapitan Eddie T. Reyes Integrated School in Taguig, featuring the thought-provoking film “Blue Room.” The film’s director and writer, Ma-an L. Asuncion-Dagñalan, graced the event and led an engaging talkback session, where she shared insights on the filmmaking process and encouraged students to reflect on the film’s themes and the stories they aspire to tell.This initiative highlights PNOC’s commitment to recognizing the vital role of women in filmmaking while empowering the youth—both girls and boys—to dream boldly. It reinforces the message that women can pursue any path they choose in a society that values equality and provides opportunities for all.
Led by PNOC-GFPS Technical Working Group Chairperson Maria Terrisa A. Tripulca, participants shared a meal and received tokens as a gesture of appreciation, capping the outreach program with meaningful engagement and shared learning experiences.
Health Talk and Screening for PNOC EmployeesOn March 19, 2026, PNOC conducted a health talk focused on kidney stone awareness entitled, “Bato Ba’to? Mula Sintomas Hanggang Solusyon sa Kidney Stones.” Guest speaker Dr. Eric Roudel Ecalnir, a Commissioned Officer of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Chief of Urology at the Army General Hospital, guided more than 50 employees through the symptoms, prevention, and management of kidney stones.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Tripulca emphasized the importance of health as a cornerstone of empowerment. “As we celebrate women’s strength, resilience, and contributions, we also take this opportunity to highlight a vital aspect of empowerment—taking charge of one’s health. After all, a healthy workforce is a productive and thriving one, and healthy women are at the heart of strong families and communities,” she said.
A free Sudoscan screening was likewise conducted by the PNOC GFPS-TWG on March 30, 2026, benefiting 40 employees. The 3-minute, non-invasive, and painless diagnostic test is used to detect early nerve damage (small fiber neuropathy) by assessing sweat gland function. It is particularly useful for monitoring nerve health, especially among diabetic individuals, without the need for blood tests or fasting.
These initiatives form part of PNOC’s continuing commitment to employee well-being and community engagement, in support of fostering an inclusive society. As a show of solidarity, employees from the head office and offsite offices in Batangas and Bataan participated in #PurpleThursday, reflecting the organization’s strong support for gender equality and women empowerment, and its collective commitment to promoting an inclusive and equitable workplace and society.