Philippines Celebrate Leadership, Resilience, and Contributions of Women in Diplomacy

Deputy Permanent Representatives and Junior Women Diplomats gather in celebration of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy on 24 June 2025 at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center in New York. (Photo credit: NYPM/Jevelynne Alina).

NEW YORK 30 June 2025 — The Permanent Mission of the Republic of the Philippines to the United Nations in New York hosted “A Night of Celebration – Making Space for Junior Women Diplomats” at the Philippine Center on 24 June 2025, in commemoration of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy. The event underscored the importance of inclusive spaces for women, particularly junior diplomats, in diplomacy and advancement of multilateralism.

Co-organized with the Permanent Missions of Guatemala, Liechtenstein, Malta, Namibia, and Romania as members of the Core Group of Women Deputy Permanent Representatives (DPRs) in New York, the gathering brought together women DPRs and junior women diplomats from Permanent Missions to the United Nations in New York, aiming to celebrate the leadership, resilience, and contributions of women across all levels of diplomatic service. The gathering also promoted mentorship and solidarity among women diplomats.

In her remarks, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative Leila C. Lora-Santos, emphasized that “diplomacy and multilateralism are strengthened by the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women.” She cited the 2024 Women in Diplomacy Index, which showed that women still hold only 21% of ambassadorial and permanent representative positions globally—a modest increase from the previous year, and a clear reminder of the work still needed to bridge the gender gap in diplomacy’s highest ranks.

DPR Lora-Santos also highlighted the Philippines’ leadership in gender parity, ranking seventh globally and first in Asia in 2024, with women comprising 46 percent of ambassadorial posts.

The celebration also recognized the outgoing members of the Core Group of Women DPRs, H.E. Myriam Oehri (Liechtenstein) and H.E. Helena Kuzee (Namibia), who shared reflections on their journeys and offered words of encouragement with junior colleagues.

DPR Kuzee reflected, “every experience we have shapes us in one way or another,” urging young diplomats to embrace both challenges and successes as part of their growth while staying true to themselves. DPR Oehri shared that “where your attention goes, your energy flows,” encouraging juniors to remain focused, purposeful, and confident.

The Core Group also welcomed its newest members: DPR Meritxell Font Vilaginés (Andorra), DPR Bahia Tahzib-Lie (Netherlands), and DPR Irene Juru (Zimbabwe).

The event concluded with a toast in honor of women in diplomacy by celebrating their achievements and continued contributions to global peace and cooperation. Light food and refreshments were shared in a potluck-style reception, with contributions graciously brought by attendees from various Permanent Missions, which added warmth and camaraderie to the celebration.

The United Nations General Assembly declared June 24 as the International Day of Women in Diplomacy through resolution A/RES/76/269. The resolution recognizes the essential role of women in diplomacy and affirms that equal participation in decision-making is essential for achieving sustainable development, peace, and security. END

Deputy Permanent Representative Leila C. Lora-Santos opens “A Night of Celebration: Making Space for Junior Women Diplomats.” (Photo credit: NYPM/Jevelynne Alina).

H.E. Myriam Oehri, Deputy Permanent Representative of Liechtenstein (left photo), and H.E. Helena Kuzee, Deputy Permanent Representative of Namibia (right photo), share personal insights and encouragement. (Photo credit: NYPM/Jevelynne Alina).

(L-R) H.E. Leila C. Lora-Santos (Philippines), H.E. Myriam Oehri (Liechtenstein), H.E. Maria Jose del Aguila (Guatemala), H.E. Helena Kuzee (Namibia), H.E. Francesca Gatt (Malta), H.E. Andreaa Mocanu (Romania), H.E. Meritxell Font Vilagines (Andorra), H.E. Bahia Tahzib-Lie (Netherlands), and H.E. Irene Juru (Zimbabwe) pose for a group photo during the celebration of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy. (Photo credit: NYPM/Jevelynne Alina).

For more information, visit https://www.newyorkpm.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.un.int/philippines or https://www.facebook.com/PHMissionNY/.