‘Despite gender equality advancements, violence still hounds PH women’

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MANILA, Philippines — Despite advancements the Philippines has made in terms of gender equality, violence still hounds Filipino women.

This was the statement of United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Philippines Country Representative Leila Joudane to mark International Women’s Day on Saturday, March 8.

Joudane cited the Philippines’ signing of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a global policy framework to advance women’s rights signed by 189 governments in 1995.

“The country’s commitment ignited important discussions on violence against women, women’s political participation, and economic rights for all,” the UNFPA representative said.

“However, despite these advancements, marginalization, discrimination, and violence still surround thousands of Filipinas,” Joudane added.

She cited statistics from the Philippine National Police showing that 33,713 cases of violence against women and children were recorded in 2024.

“This International Women’s Day, the United Nations’ global theme, ‘For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment,’ emphasizes the urgent need to ensure equal rights, power, and opportunities for all women and girls,” Joudane said.

“Achieving this vision calls for a collective effort—a shared commitment from governments, civil society, and individuals to dismantle the barriers that hinder women and girls from reaching their full potential,” the UNFPA representative added.