Marcos’ appeal to Filipina lawmakers
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has urged women legislators to break barriers for women and help his administration end violence against women.
Marcos made the call as he led the oathtaking of the newly elected officers of the Association of Women Legislators Foundation Inc. (AWLFI) in Malacañang on Tuesday.
In his speech, Marcos expressed hope that the AWLFI would support his administration’s efforts in protecting and promoting the welfare of Filipino women and children.
The President also gave his assurance to the members of the AWLFI of his strong support for their advocacies.
“It is my hope that you will continue to support this administration in preventing and eliminating violence against women and children, fostering a gender-sensitive form of governance, and promoting equal opportunity and employment for women,” Marcos said.
“These endeavors will serve as the building blocks of our dream to build a more equitable society. After all, we can only claim that we are truly progressive if everyone can be assured of a brighter future,” he added.
Among those who took their oath before the President were: Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, chairman; Bulacan Rep. Linabelle Ruth Villarica, president; San Jose del Monte City Rep. Florida Robes, senior vice president; Mandaue City Rep. Emmarie Ouano-Dizon, internal vice president; and Guimaras Rep. Ma. Lucille Nava, external vice president.
The AWLFI, composed of 86-strong female lawmakers in the House of Representatives, is a permanent bloc that works to advance the women’s legislative agenda by lobbying for the passage of measures aimed at empowering women from all sectors of society, as well as protecting the welfare of children in communities.
Since its inception in 2010, the AWLFI has already filed nearly 1,400 bills on e-governance, electronic commerce, telemedicine services, urban development and housing, fiscal policies, food security, education, health, disaster resilience, labor and employment, social services, protection against discrimination and abuse, and urgent amendments to existing laws.
Marcos lauded the AWLFI members for pursuing social programs, which include fundraising activities, relief operations and breast cancer awareness.
“As you take your oath, remember the pledge that you will carry throughout your role as women leaders who will break barriers not only for your fellow legislators, but for every Filipina as well,” the President said.