Strength in Diversity: PH Embassy in Lebanon Celebrates International Women’s Month Amid Security Challenges

The Philippine Embassy in Lebanon joins the celebration of the International Women’s Month. (Beirut PE Photo)

BEIRUT 13 March 2024 – The Philippine Embassy in Lebanon commenced its celebration of International Women’s Month with a virtual seminar for its personnel, held in partnership with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW). Given the ongoing security challenges in Lebanon, the Philippine Embassy in Lebanon tailored its approach to commemorating International Women's Month, placing utmost importance on the safety and protection of Filipino nationals, including its personnel. 

The seminar, aligned with the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Gender and Development (GAD) Agenda, tackled pressing gender concerns such as establishing a secure and bias-free work environment. Notable GAD expert Mr. Raymond Jay L. Mazo spearheaded the discussion, ensuring the dissemination of valuable insights and expertise among Embassy personnel. Through digital platforms, the Embassy sought to enhance awareness surrounding gender-related issues, foster inclusivity, and extend support services to women working and residing in Lebanon. 

In a bid to further enhance its advocacy for gender equality and empower women, the Embassy unveiled its GAD Corner, a kiosk within the Embassy premises dedicated to housing materials on women's rights and gender-related topics for distribution and borrowing. This initiative aims to educate and embolden individuals while nurturing a supportive atmosphere. Additionally, provisions of children's activity materials were made available to entertain youngsters while their guardians avail of Embassy services.

The Embassy also introduced other GAD-responsive facilities to underscore its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Such facilities include a designated play area equipped with child-friendly resources and a neutral restroom.

The initiative marks only the beginning of the Embassy’s celebration of International Women's Month. Through recognizing the reach and impact of online platforms, upcoming activities will continue to be conducted online to ensure maximum engagement with Filipino nationals. Additionally, The Embassy will collaborate with partner organizations on women to conduct information campaigns for OFWs in Lebanon and participate in the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration’s Women's Month activities.

The Embassy remains committed to promoting gender equality, empowering women, and fostering a secure and inclusive environment for all, the Embassy reaffirms its commitment to serving the Filipino community in Lebanon with unwavering excellence and compassion amid prevailing security challenges. END

Mr. Raymond Mazo speaks in a virtual seminar on gender awareness for Embassy personnel. (Beirut PE Photo)

The Embassy’s GAD Corner is located in the waiting area. (Beirut PE Photo)

For more information, visit https://www.beirutpe.dfa.gov.ph,  https://www.facebook.com/PHinLebanon/.