Marcos commits to broaden opportunities for women in labor force

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. vowed that his administration would continue to broaden opportunities for women in society, particularly in the labor force. 

Marcos made the remark as he administered the oath of office to the newly elected officers of the Association of Women Legislators Foundation, Inc. (AWLFI) of the 20th Congress during a ceremony at the Heroes Hall in Malacañang Palace.

The Philippine leader admitted that women's participation in the labor force faces challenges.

''As of January of this year, 50.7 percent of women were part of the labor force, compared with almost 74 percent of men,'' Marcos said.

''These realities remind us that empowering women requires sustained action—from expanding opportunities in education and employment to ensuring greater representation in leadership and in governance. With this in mind, this administration has vowed to broaden opportunities for women—ensuring that you are heard, that you are respected, and that you are empowered in society,'' he added.

Marcos said the government's collective efforts to advance women's rights and welfare are contributing to crucial progress. Citing the Global Gap Report of the World Economic Forum, he said the Philippines improved its standing in gender parity from 25th in 2024 to 20th in 2025.

''And the efforts of the AWLFI continue to reinforce our nation’s commitment to gender equality and social protection,'' Marcos said.

''Through your advocacy for laws that safeguard women and children and your initiatives such as the annual All-Women Session, you highlight the indispensable role of women in nation-building,'' he added.

Marcos urged the AWLFI to carry forward the values that define true public service: excellence, integrity, and an enduring passion.

''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,'' Marcos 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. —VAL, GMA Integrated News