Today, on International Women’s Day, I would like to recognize all the women in the Philippine Foreign Service, across all offices, here and abroad, whose collective efforts, for over 126 years, have helped established the reputation of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) as one of the most prestigious and highly respected government agencies in the country.

In a span of over four decades in the Foreign Service, I have witnessed, firsthand, the amazing progress we have made in employing more women across the DFA’s organizational structure. With sixty percent of our workforce currently composed of women, I am proud that the DFA Has achieved a significant milestone in women empowerment. All of us bear witness to how the DFA continues to reap the benefits of having more women in the workplace. I am honored myself to have the privilege of working with women, throughout these years, who enrich and invigorate our institution with their skills, talents and perspectives.

I wish to thank each and every one of you, whatever your roles may be, for making a positive impact in your respective offices, as this ultimately redounds to a more resilient, robust, and responsive Philippine Foreign Service.

Let me end by encouraging all of you to share your suggestions with HRMO on other ways that we could better support women in our workplace. As your Secretary, I am invested in initiatives and strategies that empower women.

Maraming salamat sa inyong serbisyo! Mabuhay ang kababaihan ng Kagawaran ng Ugnayang Panlabas!

Happy International Women’s Day!