06 April 2015 – Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Virginia H. Benavidez joined the officers and members of the Pan-Pacific and Southeast Asia Women’s Association (PPSEAWA) New Zealand (Inc.) in their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on February 28 at the Johnsonville Community Centre, Johnsonville, Wellington.
PPSEAWA is a group of women from the Pacific and Southeast Asian regions who come together to foster greater understanding and friendship; engage in projects for the youth and local communities; as well as promote the status of girls and women through education and engage in work to protect and improve the environment.
Wellington Mayor and PPSEAWA Patron Celia Wade Brown, Ethnic Communities CEO Berlinda Chin, and United Nations Association of New Zealand (UNANZ) Vice President Joy Dunsheath each gave remarks that highlighted the crucial role of PPSEAWA in women’s development and empowerment. Dr. Gloria Hettige, President of PPSEAWA Wellington, welcomed the guests and PPSEAWA officers and members.
In her speech, Ambassador Benavidez congratulated PPSEAWA New Zealand for reaching a milestone in engaging with women in Southeast Asia for 60 years and with women in the Pacific for 84 years. She went on to say that among the key agenda in the 2015 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, which is being hosted by the Philippines, are the economic empowerment and greater inclusion of women in the regional economy. Ambassador Benavidez elaborated on the role of the environment, the gender equality index ranking and the attributes of excellence, empathy, EQ and equilibrium in making the Filipino woman a strong, spirited, steady and supportive influencer and anchor in the family, nation and across all sectors. She said that in the Philippines, the crucial role of women is very much evident in the executive, legislative and judicial branches and various agencies in government, business and all other sectors of society.
In recognition of her outstanding support for and participation in PPSEAWA’s affairs, Ambassador Benavidez was bestowed the Honorary Membership of the Association and presented with a Certificate of Appreciation. Following the recognition ceremony, Ambassador Benavidez thanked PPSEAWA and reiterated her commitment to continue advocating for women empowerment and sharing her personal experiences in helping to make the world realize the many roles women have in society. END