The lobby of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region 7 (MGB 7) was transformed into a festive hub of commerce and empowerment on March 23–24, 2026, as it hosted the “Produkto sa mga Kababayen-an sa Mina” showcase.

Now in its second year following a highly successful launch in 2025, the two-day event was a major highlight of MGB 7’s National Women’s Month celebration. This year’s activities aligned with the national theme, “WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society,” and the inspiring sub-theme, “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”

Spearheaded by the Mine Safety, Environment, and Social Development Division (MSESDD) in coordination with the MGB 7 Gender and Development (GAD) focal point system, the initiative highlights the evolution of women into economic leaders. Building on the momentum of last year’s debut, the organizers aimed to make women’s leadership in local mining economies both visible and celebrated by showcasing products directly from their host communities.

The showcase featured women’s groups supported by three of Cebu’s leading mining companies: Apo Land & Quarry Corporation (ALQC), Republic Cement & Building Materials, Inc. (RCBMI), and Carmen Copper Corporation (CCC). These participants operate community-based enterprises under each company’s Social Development and Management Program (SDMP). These programs, monitored by the MSESDD, offer the training, resources, and platforms necessary for women to transition into business ownership, highlighting a combined commitment to inclusive mining and sustainable community growth.

The exhibition booths offered a varied array of goods, drawing in buyers from various DENR 7 offices. Items on sale included organic vegetables, fruits, eggs, and locally pressed juices, as well as regional delicacies and handcrafted creations such as artisanal bags and floor rugs. These products served as a practical demonstration of how GAD-aligned SDMP initiatives cultivate self-reliance and progress among women in host communities.

Beyond the sale of goods, the event served as a platform for public recognition and advocacy. By providing a space for these women to exhibit their creativity and entrepreneurial skills, the partnership between MGB 7 and the mining companies of Central Visayas effectively bridged the gap between industrial operations and grassroots livelihood development.

The celebration concluded with a formal acknowledgement of ALQC, RCBMI, and CCC during the culminating activity, reaffirming that the path toward a sustainable and inclusive mining industry in Central Visayas is paved by the empowerment and leadership of the modern Filipina. (MGB7/IO)