Ermelita Valdeavilla

08/10/2026

Together with Sec. Senen Sarmiento, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) and Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) welcomed delegates from across ASEAN, our Dialogue Partners, and friends from the Pacific to the ASEAN Conference on Women, Peace and Security for a welcome banquet on October 6, 2026, aimed at reconnecting with one another and strengthening the bonds of solidarity and friendship.

So, why hold an ASEAN Conference to Advance Women, Security and Peace? My answer is WHY NOT?

Our languages differ, but each has a word for helping one another: gotong royong, bayanihan, nam jai. Different words, one ASEAN heart.

In every community, women are already building peace. They settle quarrels, care for the vulnerable, and keep life going through their networks when formal institutions falter. From Aceh, Mindanao to Timor-Leste, women organized long before the world took notice.

To our partners, civil society, and the women peacebuilders at the heart of this work: maraming salamat. Let's keep building trust and solidarity, one conversation at a time.

Eleven nations, one heart. Mabuhay! 🇵🇭

07/10/2026

ASEAN United for Peace.

07/10/2026

Women for Peace

07/10/2026

Thanks to OPAPRU!

07/10/2026

Women4Peace

05/10/2026

In preparation for the upcoming ASEAN Women Economic Summit 2026, we met with the Women's Business Council Philippines for a coordination meeting.

Women's economic empowerment is not a side conversation in our region's growth story. It is central to it. When women lead, build, and invest, entire communities and economies move forward. Our discussion focused on aligning priorities and ensuring that the Summit translates into concrete opportunities for Filipino women entrepreneurs, from micro and small enterprises to established business leaders.

To the Women's Business Council Philippines, maraming salamat for your commitment, candor, and shared vision. The private sector is a vital partner in advancing gender equality, and together we will make sure the Philippines brings a strong, united voice to the ASEAN table.

Stronger together. See you at the Summit!

03/10/2026

Women are at the heart of ASEAN’s progress and resilience!

At the 4th ASEAN Women Leaders’ Summit, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. highlighted the vital role of women in strengthening communities, driving economies, and shaping Southeast Asia’s future.

Under the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship, efforts are underway to accelerate digital financial inclusion, expand opportunities for women-led enterprises, and recognize the essential contributions of the care economy.

From governance and business to technology and civil society, ASEAN women continue to break barriers, lead change, and move the region forward!

03/10/2026