President Rodrigo Duterte assured on Friday, March 31, to assist Filipino women in uplifting their living conditions, particularly the poor and marginalized.

In his message during the “Digong’s Day for Women” in Malacañan, the President said his administration is extending livelihood assistance to Filipino women.

The money will be coursed through and managed by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

“But you have to attend a seminar. You have to attend a seminar then they will… Sila ‘yung expert if they want tailoring? Meron silang tailoringan ‘yung Go Negosyo ni Ramon Lopez ng Department of Trade and Industry,” he said.

At the same time, he said he has increased the budget for agriculture and education to provide more sources of livelihood to the people.

And to demonstrate that his government is pro-women, the President said he designated women leaders to be part of his Cabinet like Environment Secretary Gina Lopez, Social Welfare Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial, Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo and National Anti-Poverty Commission Secretary Liza Maza.

The President said when he was Davao City mayor, he implemented policies intended to protect women. The Davao City government came up with a Women’s Code that was strictly followed.

There was also a law in the city against bigotry and discrimination to protect minorities from unfair treatment and practices, the President said.

Participating agencies for Friday’s event provided several services to women like spa and wellness, legal consultation, distribution of medical and dental referral cards, as well as TESDA scholarships. They also had a tour of Malacañan Museum and were given snacks and goodies. PND