Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has called on women leaders in Southeast Asia to assert their influence and demand greater participation in governance, business, technology, and civil society. Speaking at the 4th ASEAN Women Leaders’ Summit in Mandaluyong City, Marcos highlighted the crucial role women play in regional security, resilience, and economic growth.
During the summit, held on Tuesday, Marcos emphasized that women are vital contributors to family support and local economies. Despite this, they continue to be underrepresented in national parliaments and government cabinets across ASEAN member states. This underrepresentation, he argued, undermines their potential impact on development and innovation in the region.
Marcos urged the creation of policies, institutions, and investments that reflect and enhance women’s leadership and participation. He advocated for recognizing women not only as beneficiaries of development initiatives but also as leaders and innovators who are shaping the future of Southeast Asia.
His address at the summit underscored the need for a shift in perspective on women’s roles, calling for a more inclusive approach that acknowledges their contributions across various sectors. Marcos’s remarks aimed to inspire action among women leaders to seek greater influence and representation.
The ASEAN Women Leaders’ Summit serves as a platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities facing women in the region. It encourages dialogue and collaboration among women leaders to promote gender equality and empowerment.