At the 4th ASEAN Women Leaders’ Summit held in Mandaluyong City, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on women leaders in Southeast Asia to amplify their roles in governance, business, technology, and civil society. He emphasized the significant contributions that women make to regional security, resilience, and economic growth, urging greater representation and participation in these sectors.
Marcos highlighted the critical yet often underrepresented role of women in national parliaments and government cabinets across ASEAN member states. He pointed out that while women have traditionally been pivotal in supporting families and local economies, their potential as leaders and innovators remains underutilized.
During his address, Marcos advocated for the recognition of women not just as beneficiaries of development, but as key players shaping the region’s future. He called for the establishment of policies, institutions, and investments that better reflect women’s participation and leadership, thereby fostering an inclusive environment where women can fully realize their potential.
The summit served as a platform to discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by women leaders in ASEAN, with a focus on enhancing their influence in various sectors. Marcos’ remarks underscored the need for collective efforts to break down barriers and create equitable opportunities for women throughout the region.