Expressing pride over the country’s success in attaining gender equality and women empowerment, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said the Philippines can do more to protect Filipino women and develop their potential.

“I am truly proud of the Philippines’ distinction as a shining beacon of gender equality and women empowerment in the world. Be it in politics, business, academe and local communities, most especially in our homes, women have occupied and continue to occupy positions of power and influence in our society,” President Duterte said in a message Tuesday during the celebration of International Women’s Day 2022 (IWD).

“This emphasizes, not only our values as a people, but also the importance we put on women as vital partners in nation-building.”

“While a growing consciousness on equality is already an impressive feat and women are breaking the glass ceiling, I believe that we can do more.”

As Filipinos gain more access to education, information, and innovation, the President said more women will have the chance to meaningfully participate in many aspects of human development and change the mindset that continue to restrict women and other gender expressions.

“So let us all come together in building a country where no one is left behind and everyone has the capacity to succeed,” he said in rallying public support.

International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality.

With the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people, IWD has occurred for well over a century. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere although it is not country, group or organization specific. PND