21 April 2016 - The   Philippine   Embassy   in   Brunei   Darussalam   conducted   a forum on “Women Empowerment in the Workplace” on April 08, from 3:00pm to 5:00pm at the Chancery, as part of the Embassy’s Gender and Development (GAD) programs.  The forum was held in line with the Celebration of National Women’s Month/International Women’s Day.         

Philippine Labor Attaché Violetta D. Illescas was the speaker for the event. She focused her presentation on how women can empower themselves in their working environment to distinguish them to be at par with their male counterparts in terms of job opportunities. The event also discussed policy-making guidelines for decision makers to promote women empowerment in their respective working environments.         

The lecture, which was attended by 68 participants, composed of 45 females and 23   males, aims to make Filipino women economically competitive, thus help the government in its efforts to reduce poverty. The lecture was followed by a health screening in cooperation with Filipino nurses from Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital. Participants had their blood pressure and glucose levels checked during the said health screening.         

Philippine Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Meynardo LB. Montealegre, in his opening remarks, welcomed the participants and highlighted the role of Filipino women in the country’s economic development, particularly of female OFWs. Ambassador Montealegre also took the opportunity to remind the attendees to participate in the ongoing elections being held at the Embassy that started on April 09 and is scheduled to last until May 09. END