PH Consul General in Sydney Reinforces Commitment to Women Empowerment and Gender Equality
The forum, moderated by Kababaihang Rizalista Sydney Chapter President Lady Michelle Baltazar, also featured panelists Philippine Tourism Representative Purificacion Molintas, and three women entrepreneurs, namely Kaila Cruz (founder of Immico), Diwani “Kotch” Velasquez (co-owner of MK5 Plus), and Aubrey Abanico (founder of Aban Eco). (Sydney PCG photo)
SYDNEY 25 March 2024 – During the International Women’s Day Forum and Gala Dinner 2024, Philippine Consul General in Sydney Charmaine Rowena C. Aviquivil underscored the Philippines’ commitment in championing gender equality and women empowerment.
In particular, she shared that the Philippines achieved 79.1% gender parity and a higher ranking in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Index 2023, increased participation of women as MSMEs owners and the highest number of female executives in top management. The Philippines is the only country in Southeast Asia and one of the two countries in Asia Pacific, following New Zealand, to be included in the top 20.
She also encouraged everyone to work together in closing the gender gap through ensuring an open environment, proper implementation of legal frameworks, and enabling greater access for women in finance and financial services, skills, technology, and networks.
The forum focused on how to encourage the greater participation of women entrepreneurs in business and how this has a positive impact on the global economy. Consul General Aviquivil shared that Filipino women have been contributing to the Philippine economy even during the 19th century through the aguadoras or water carriers, lecheras or milk sellers, cigarreras or cigarette makers, and betel leaf and nut sellers.
During the forum where she was a panelist, she shared some of the activities undertaken by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, including Philippine Embassies and Consulates General, to foster women entrepreneurship and empowerment. The forum, moderated by Kababaihang Rizalista Sydney Chapter President Lady Michelle Baltazar, also featured panelists Philippine Tourism Representative Purificacion Molintas, and three women entrepreneurs, namely Kaila Cruz (founder of Immico), Diwani “Kotch” Velasquez (co-owner of MK5 Plus), and Aubrey Abanico (founder of Aban Eco).
Following the forum, outstanding Filipino-Australian women entrepreneurs and business owners were honored during the gala dinner.
The International Women’s Day Forum and Gala Dinner 2024 was organized by Adhika and Kababaihang Rizalista and was held on 16 March 2024 at Dooleys Lidcombe Catholic Club. END
Highlights of the forum moderated by Adhika and Kababaihang Rizalista Sydney Chapter. (Sydney PCG photo)
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