Message of the UN Philippines Resident Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez for the Women’s Empowerment Principles Awards Ceremony

It is with great honor that I address all of you today to extend my congratulations to  individuals, businesses, and companies, big and small, local and multinational, that are taking action to contribute and rally behind women’s empowerment and gender equality.



The Philippines has ranked consistently high in ​the ​gender equality index compared to other Asian countries. It has been a model for landmark laws, promoting and protecting women’s rights, and the dynamic engagement of various stakeholders and partners from civil society, government, and international development organizations. And now, with businesses and the private sector ​closing ranks with these advocates, we will see the country reach more milestones in promoting and achieving gender equality, inclusion, and women’s empowerment.



The UN in the Philippines recently updated its cooperation framework. We call it “The Socioeconomic and Peacebuilding Framework for the COVID-19 Recovery,” or SEPF. It is our new roadmap to ‘build forward better’ while keeping the country within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) path.



The SEPF puts a spotlight on structural gender disparities, evidenced by the​ ​lack of economic opportunities and social benefits, unsafe and unfair labor practices, among others, which put women at a great disadvantage.



We still live in a male-dominated world, with a male-dominated culture, and have done so for millennia.



We also know that gender equality is not a simple sociological discussion, it is, fundamentally, a question of power.



Centuries of discrimination have created a gender power gap in our economies, in our political systems and in our corporations.

We have to reduce inequality.



Our commitment to promote economic justice and rights by addressing gender discrimination can transform the way we do business.



As the winners of Community Engagement and Partnerships, Gender Inclusive Workplaces, Leadership Commitment, and Gender Responsive Marketplace - the work, and programmes you have adopted will create ripples of positive change within and outside your organizations.



Our economy is starting to reopen. As we build new models for business operations, aiming for innovation to propel businesses, we should not forget to incorporate and address the needs and particular context of women. As employees, as entrepreneurs, as suppliers, as mothers, daughters and as members of communities where they contribute their time, talents, and resources.



I encourage you to be extra mindful and responsive to the challenges and difficulties faced by women and take the necessary steps in business adjustments to offer and extend support for them.



This morning’s event is meant to celebrate and learn from lessons – is also the best opportunity to carve pathways together for a more inclusive and sustainable development that could serve and benefit all of us, especially our women.



With the foundations set by the Women’s Empowerment Principles – that task ahead should be easier, but it is not something we can accomplish overnight. The commitment to consistently deliver and act with deep intention and purpose to pursue programmes and projects that would promote and bring us closer to gender equality is best guided by good metrics and indicators.



This is where we are pleased to see companies openly sharing their accomplishments through reports and publications that show impact stories and inspiring transformation of communities, beneficiaries, companies, and stakeholders. This is also where you, as WEPS winners, could amplify the call and advocacy to raise more awareness about the value that the women’s empowerment principles could bring for businesses, workplaces, and communities.



Let us all begin this today and find ways to sustain and grow this in the years to come. Together.



Thank you and a good day to everyone!