Technical Working Group and Secretariat of the Gender and Development Focal Point System, Tourism Promotions Board.

The Tourism Promotions Board Gender and Development Focal Point System Technical Working Group participated in the 2nd Inter-Agency Women’s Forum, hosted by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), on March 26, 2025, in commemoration of National Women’s Month. The forum, themed “Recognizing Women’s Leadership in Key Sectors: A Path to Equality, Inclusivity, and Empowerment,” highlighted the substantial contributions of women across diverse sectors and focused on strategies for advancing progress in this domain.

The forum featured presentations from esteemed speakers who shared their expertise and perspectives on the role of women in various professional fields. Dr. Vallerie Ann I. Samson (Department of Science and Technology) addressed the underrepresentation of women in science and technology, outlining initiatives aimed at increasing female participation. Dr. Elenida Basug (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) emphasized the critical role of women’s leadership in climate action, while Atty. Mylen B. Gonzales-Esquivel (Miriam College Child Rights Advocacy Center) discussed the challenges faced by women in social work and their significant contributions. Ms. Agnes Gervacio (Connected Women) highlighted the growing influence of women in business and innovation, and Ms. Angeline Vallalba (Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Biodiversity Management Bureau) emphasized the importance of women in advancing ecotourism and sustainable practices.

The TIEZA forum provided a vital platform for government agencies to engage in discussions, exchange experiences, and promote collaborative efforts toward gender equality and the empowerment of women. By recognizing and celebrating the diverse contributions of women, the event aimed to inspire continued progress toward a more inclusive and sustainable future.