President Rodrigo Duterte. Screengrab from PCOO / Facebook
MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday said that he is proud of the country’s distinction as a “shining beacon” of gender equality and women empowerment across the globe.
He made the remark as he joined the nation in celebrating International Women’s Day.
“I am truly proud of the Philippines’ distinction as a shining beacon of gender equality and women empowerment in the world. Be it in politics, business, academe, and local communities, most especially in our homes, women have occupied and continue to occupy positions of power and influence in our society,” Duterte said in a statement.
“This emphasizes, not only our values as a people but also the importance we put on women as vital partners in nation-building,” he added.
The chief executive noted that Filipinos can do more for women and people with other gender expressions.
“While a growing consciousness on equality is already an impressive feat and women are breaking the glass ceiling, I believe that we can do more,” he said.
“As we gain more access to education, information and innovation, more women will have the chance to meaningfully participate in many aspects of human development and change the mindsets that continue to put women and other gender expressions at a disadvantage,” the president went on.
Duterte called on Filipinos to come together in creating a nation “where no one is left behind and everyone has the capacity to succeed.”
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