MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called for the active participation of women in all areas of society, saying that genuine progress is impossible without their involvement. He delivered the message during the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations on Monday in New York City.
“Development should not be measured solely by GDP, trade, or technological advances. The real test is how women are faring,” Marcos said. He emphasized that education, safety, and leadership opportunities for women are crucial indicators of a society’s advancement.
Marcos highlighted the essential contributions of Filipino women, who have long held leadership roles in government, business, education, health, and family life, forming the backbone of communities and the nation.
“Ensuring women have a seat at the table is not just fair—it is critical for building strong, resilient nations,” he said, urging countries to integrate women fully into governance, business, science, diplomacy, and peace initiatives.
He also stressed the global importance of women’s engagement, noting that pressing challenges—ranging from conflicts to climate change and rapid technological progress—cannot be addressed if half the population is excluded from decision-making.
The UN’s Commission on the Status of Women remains the leading international forum focused on promoting women’s rights, gender equality, and empowerment worldwide.
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