MANILA – In her opening address at the commencement of the International Conference on Women, Peace, and Security (ICWPS), Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman underscored the Philippine government’s commitment to fostering inclusivity, empowerment, and resilience for women in times of crisis.

 

She began her statement by expressing sympathy and solidarity with those impacted by Tropical Storm Kristine (Trami), specifically highlighting the intensified challenges faced by women within the affected communities.

 

“While all agencies have been fulfilling their respective tasks in disaster management and relief operations, this is a reminder for us to increase our efforts in climate action and sustainability,” Secretary Mina stressed, linking the recent storm's impact to the importance of international collaboration on both climate resilience and gender equity.

 

Emphasizing the historical significance of the conference, the Budget Secretary also reflected on the impact of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which, since its inception two decades ago, has catalyzed global initiatives to enhance women's participation in peace and security.

 

She cited the significant strides the Philippines has made in advancing the WPS Agenda, especially through the efforts of the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Philippine Commission on Women, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity, as well as the DBM.

 

“We have the ‘Women's Budget’ or the Gender and Development Budget in the General Appropriations Act, a policy directing all government agencies to allocate a minimum of five percent of their total annual budgets for gender programs, projects, and activities that align with the WPS Agenda,” Secretary Mina elaborated.

 

She also noted the significant role of the Bangsamoro Women Commission in BARMM, which is set to hold its first regional elections in May 2025, demonstrating the power of inclusivity and local governance in peacebuilding.  

 

 

"The Cabinet of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. includes five female ministers... a testament to [his] commitment to elevating women to more prominent roles, as well as greater voice—especially within the government," Sec. Pangandaman shared, emphasizing her role as the only Muslim Filipina Minister.

 

Encouraging international delegates to embrace open dialogue and collaboration, Sec. Mina urged all participants to “do what women do best: listen,” to foster global solidarity and to inspire innovative strategies in the face of evolving security challenges like cybersecurity and climate change.

 

“Together, let us create an enabling environment where women are empowered to be catalysts of positive and meaningful change, promoting gender equality and fostering comprehensive, effective responses to complex peace and security issues. Remember, when we women come together and put our minds to it, we can get through any storm and even dance in the rain,” she concluded.

 

The conference, marking the first-ever ministerial-level event on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS), convenes delegates from across the globe to share strategies, best practices, and stories of resilience in advancing women’s roles in peacebuilding.

 

Organized by the Philippine government in collaboration with various international and local partners, the ICWPS will continue over the next three days. It aims to strengthen international commitments and inspire progressive action to further the WPS agenda globally.

 

Addressing key issues such as women’s roles in cybersecurity, health security, and climate resilience, the conference reflects the Philippine government's enduring dedication to WPS.

 

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