Filipino women were honored by Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III on Wednesday as modern-day “Babaylans,” recognizing their leadership, strength and vital role in nation-building as the country marks National Women’s Month 2026.

Dy said the Babaylan, respected in pre-colonial Philippine society as women spiritual leaders and community guides, symbolizes wisdom, courage and responsibility—qualities he said continue to define Filipinas today.

“Ngayong National Women’s Month 2026, alalahanin natin ang lakas na matagal nang nananalaytay sa bawat Pilipina—ang diwa ng Babaylan: lider na may karunungan, malasakit, tapang, at pananagutan sa komunidad,” Dy said in a video message.

The Speaker from Isabela said the same spirit can be seen in the everyday work of Filipino women across different sectors of society.

“Ang diwang ito ay buhay sa bawat ina na lumalaban para sa kinabukasan ng kanyang anak, sa bawat babaeng guro na humuhubog ng pangarap, sa bawat babaeng lider sa pamahalaan at sa iba’t ibang sektor,” Dy said.

Dy said women’s leadership helps make development more inclusive while strengthening society.

“Kayo ang patunay na kapag ang babae ang namumuno, nagiging mas inklusibo ang pag-unlad at mas matatag ang lipunan,” he said.

He added that Congress recognizes women as partners in advancing reforms and national development.

“Respeto, suporta at taos-pusong pagkilala ang handog natin sa mga kababaihan na kabalikat ng Kongreso sa pagsusulong ng pagbabago at kaunlaran,” Dy said.

The House leader acknowledged that many women still struggle to be heard and given opportunities.

“Ngunit hindi pa po tapos ang laban. May mga kababaihan pa ring hindi naririnig at hindi nabibigyan ng pagkakataon,” he said.

“Kaya malinaw po ang ating panawagan: walang maiiwan.”

Dy vowed that Congress will continue pushing measures aimed at empowering women, particularly those in marginalized sectors.

He stressed that supporting women’s empowerment should not be limited to the annual observance of Women’s Month.

“At ang responsibilidad na ito ay dala natin araw-araw, hindi lamang tuwing Women’s Month,” he said.

Dy also urged Filipino women to recognize the strength of their voices and leadership.

“Sa bawat Pilipina, ito ang aking mensahe: huwag mong maliitin ang iyong tinig. Ikaw ang bukal ng lakas. Ikaw ang lider ng ating panahon. Ikaw ang makabagong Babaylan,” he said.