28/11/2025
Prepared Mothers, Stronger Communities: The Story of “Inang Handa” A Research-Based Extension of PSU Graduate School MPA
On the morning of November 28, 2025, the MDRRMO of the Municipality of Bacolor was filled with anticipation and pride as the first batch of graduates of “Inang Handa” gathered for their culminating activity. This research-based extension project of the Pampanga State University Graduate School (GS) Master in Public Administration (MPA) program was carried out in partnership with Bacolor’s Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO). The initiative was the product of the dedicated research of GS MPA students Jasmine D. Jaso, Princesnecie G. Carreon, Ma. Remedios D. Malang, and Patricia P. Balolong, under the guidance of their adviser Michelle G. Ong.
The graduation ceremony was graced by the presence of Municipal Mayor Eduardo “Diman” G. Datu, Vice-Mayor Ron Earvin E. Dungca, and other local officials, who expressed their support for the project’s vision of empowering communities through preparedness. Representatives from the Extension Services Office, including Dr. Dean Lapuz, Eloisa Mendoza, and Ma. Ferdelyn Matic-Coutinho , also attended, alongside PSU GS leaders Dr. Dolores T. Quiambao, Dean of the Graduate School, and Dr. Wilfredo Q. Cunanan, GS Extension Coordinator. Their participation highlighted the strong collaboration between the university and the municipality in building resilient communities.
For five days, from November 24 to 28, 2025, the project focused on two of Bacolor’s most needful barangays—Talba and Maliwalu. A total of 38 mothers participated in daily sessions from 7:30 a.m. to 12 noon, immersing themselves in learning and skill-building activities. Carrying the empowering tagline “Babai Ako, Handa Ako” (I am a woman, I am ready), the program recognized the vital role of mothers as protectors and leaders within their households. By equipping them with knowledge and confidence, Inang Handa sought to transform vulnerability into strength and preparedness.
The sessions were enriched by the expertise of resource speakers who guided the participants through a wide range of topics. Rhiziel Manalese introduced the project with an overview, while Ivan Liwanag shared functional knowledge on DRRMO. Agnes Regala taught first aid management for maternal and child health emergencies, and Adjenette De Jesus led a women-led household disaster drill. Remedios Malang emphasized the importance of women supporting women, while Patricia Balolong discussed legal empowerment under the theme Empowered by Law. Ian Kenneth Figueroa facilitated women leader capacity building, Roda Capulong reinforced first aid management, and Atty. Regina Salonga provided insights on legal empowerment for women.
The week-long program was more than a training—it was a journey of empowerment. The mothers of Talba and Maliwalu left not only with practical skills in disaster preparedness and first aid but also with renewed confidence in their ability to safeguard their families and inspire their communities. The success of Inang Handa lies in its collaborative spirit, proving that academic research, when paired with local governance and grassroots participation, can directly uplift lives.
As the first batch of graduates proudly declared “Babai Ako, Handa Ako,” they embodied the vision of the project: when mothers are ready, the entire community becomes stronger. This milestone marks the beginning of a larger movement, with Inang Handa poised to expand and reach more barangays in the future—continuing its mission of nurturing resilience and empowering women at the heart of every household.
