Vice President Sara Duterte on Sunday called for stronger systems to support women, highlighting the need for protection for the informal sector, climate-resilient support for farmers, and improved access to financing for women entrepreneurs.
In a video message for International Women’s Day, Duterte expressed solidarity with Filipino women, noting that they not only endure challenges but also play a vital role in rebuilding lives and communities.
“Tayo ang matatag na sandigan ng ating bansa, mula sa mga inang pinagkakasya ang bawat piso, sa mga magsasakang bumabangon matapos ang baha, hanggang sa mga kababaihan nating nagtatrabaho sa iba’t ibang panig ng mundo,” she said.
(We are the strong foundation of our country, from mothers who struggle to make ends meet, to farmers who are recovering after the floods, to our women working in different parts of the world.)
Duterte emphasized that it is time to move beyond just praising resilience, stressing the need to establish systems that truly support and empower women.
“Ang pagsuporta sa kababaihan ay hindi lamang pagpapakita ng kabutihang-loob. It is a strategy for inclusive growth,” she added.
(Supporting women is not just a show of generosity. It is a strategy for inclusive growth.)
She also urged unity in creating a society where every Filipina can lead with dignity and where future generations of girls inherit opportunities, not just responsibilities.
“Sa pagbibigay-lakas sa bawat Pilipina, tayo ay direktang namumuhunan sa kinabukasan ng ating bansa,” Duterte said.
(By empowering every Filipina, we are investing directly in the future of our country.)
