Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has encouraged women leaders throughout Southeast Asia to play a more significant role in sectors such as governance, business, technology, and civil society. Speaking at the 4th ASEAN Women Leaders’ Summit held in Mandaluyong City, Marcos emphasized the vital contributions women make to regional security, resilience, and economic growth and urged them to continue asserting their influence.
Marcos highlighted the underrepresentation of women in national parliaments and government cabinets across ASEAN member states, despite their crucial role in supporting families and local economies. He called for an increase in women’s participation in decision-making processes, asserting that women should be recognized not just as beneficiaries of development but as leaders and innovators shaping the region’s future.
To achieve greater gender balance, Marcos advocated for the creation of policies, institutions, and investments that better reflect women’s participation and leadership. He underscored the importance of these measures in fostering an environment where women can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of the Southeast Asian region.