DAFE Participates in the 4th International Conference WELA 2026

DAFE actively participated in the 4th International Conference on Women Empowerment and Leadership in Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (WELA) 2026, held on March 17-19, 2026 at the CvSU International Convention Center, Indang, Philippines.

Anchored on the theme “Inclusive Leadership and Foresight for Sustainable Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources,” the three-day conference brought together experts, leaders, policymakers, researchers, and development partners committed to advancing women’s empowerment, sustainable innovation, and inclusive development across the AANR sectors.

The event featured a series of plenary sessions, panel discussions, and technical presentations focusing on inclusive leadership, sustainable development, and gender-responsive initiatives within agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources. The conference aimed to provide a platform for meaningful conservations that empower women across disciplines and nations, highlighting their vital role in shaping resilient and sustainable communities.

 

On the third day, parallel paper presentation sessions addressed key issues and emerging trends under subthemes such as Climate-Smart and Resilient Practices, Circular Economy and Waste Valorization, Digital Transformation, Green and Blue Economies, and Capacity Building and Policy Reform, and their implications for gender-inclusive development.

 

DAFE chairperson, Dr. Richelle Mae D. Mendoza-Olpot, served as one of the presenters during these sessions, presenting the paper titled, “Design and Evaluation of Arduino-based Kaong Sap Collector Monitoring System.” Joining the conference as participants were Engr. John Paulo M. Perido, Engr. Melrose M. Salona-Perido, and Hannah Elisha Nasis, BSABE student and President of the PSABE-PPG Cavite Chapter.

The conference highlighted the essential yet often underrecognized contributions of women in society. As one speaker emphasized, "Women's contributions, often unseen, make a lasting impact." DAFE shares this vision and remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote gender equity and empowerment within the AANR sectors (MSPerido).