President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday called on women lawmakers to continue advancing measures that safeguard women and children while expanding opportunities for them.
Speaking at the oath-taking of new officers of the Association of Women Legislators’ Foundation Inc. (AWLFI) of the 20th Congress, Marcos pledged his support for their initiatives.
“So, let us work together. You have me as your ally. I have – I have in my life, certainly as you all know, my history, I’m surrounded by very, very strong women and I am very lucky for it,” Marcos said.
He emphasized the need to strengthen systems that allow women to play a greater role in decision-making that shapes their lives and future.
“Because for too many women and girls, the promise of opportunity remains distant—they are silenced by poverty, by violence, by traditions that deny women their rightful place,” he said.
“Yet we know this truth, that when woman have a chance to learn, to work, and to lead, she does not rise alone because she lifts with her, her family, her community, and that way, her nation,” he added.
Marcos noted that while the Philippines is among Asia’s better performers in gender inclusion, significant gaps remain, particularly in governance and labor participation.
He reiterated his earlier call at the United Nations for women to be included in decision-making spaces, especially on issues that directly affect them.
“Kaya’t sa mga bagong opisyal ng AWLFI, ipagpatuloy po ninyo ang pagbibigay-lakas sa ating mga kababaihan—mga ina, mga manggagawa, guro, lider, at mga batang babae na nangangarap ng mas maliwanag na kinabukasan,” Marcos said.
The President also highlighted the need for sustained efforts to expand access to education, employment, and leadership roles, noting that women remain underrepresented in national governance and have lower labor force participation compared to men.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing gender equality and ensuring broader opportunities for women across sectors.