The Philippines is set to commemorate the 2025 National Women’s Month this March, embracing the ongoing theme “WE for gender equality and inclusive society.” This theme, introduced in 2023, underscores the collective effort—Women and Everyone—in advancing gender equality and fostering an inclusive society. (pcw.gov.ph)
Kick-Off Event
The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), in collaboration with SM Cares, will inaugurate the celebration with an onsite event on March 5, 2025. This kick-off will feature a trade fair and various booths, offering a platform to showcase women’s contributions and promote gender-responsive products and services. (pcw.gov.ph)
Legal Foundations
The observance of National Women’s Month in the Philippines is anchored on several legal mandates:
- Proclamation No. 224 s. 1988: Declares the first week of March each year as Women’s Week and March 8 as Women’s Rights and International Peace Day.
- Proclamation No. 227 s. 1988: Designates March as “Women’s Role in History Month,” highlighting the vital contributions of Filipino women throughout history.
- Republic Act No. 6949 s. 1990: Establishes March 8 as National Women’s Day, recognized as a special working holiday.
These mandates collectively emphasize the nation’s commitment to honoring women’s roles and advocating for their rights. (pcw.gov.ph)
Global Standing
The Philippines continues to make strides in closing gender gaps. According to the 2023 Global Gender Gap Index by the World Economic Forum, the country has achieved 79.1% gender parity, ranking 16th out of 146 countries globally. This positions the Philippines as the leading Asian nation in terms of gender equality, reflecting its dedication to fostering an environment where women have equal opportunities and rights. (pcw.gov.ph)
Call to Action
The 2025 celebration serves as both a recognition of progress and a call to action. It invites all sectors of society to actively participate in initiatives that promote gender equality and inclusivity. By working together, the nation can continue to build a society where every individual, regardless of gender, can thrive and contribute to national development.
For more information on events and participation, visit the official PCW website. (pcw.gov.ph)