GO Negosyo founder Jose Maria Concepcion III met with United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed in Manila on Oct. 29 to discuss strategies on how to expedite the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Mohammed was in the Philippines for the International Conference on Women, Peace and Security (ICWPS) at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, Go Negosyo said in a statement.
It added that the meeting was attended by representatives from the private sector, including 2023 Go Negosyo Inspiring Filipino awardee Anna Marie Lagon of Bayo Manila Inc.
"The Philippines has demonstrated strong leadership and continues to strengthen the #WPS (Women, Peace, and Security) agenda. We discussed ways to further champion WPS alongside youth, peace and security," Mohammed said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Mohammed thanked Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo for hosting the ICWPS.
"Women must be at the heart of our efforts for peace, security and sustainable development. That means we must be present at the table, negotiating peace and, in the field, sustaining peace," she said.
Mohammed said she witnessed the Philippine government's efforts in addressing the risks and challenges faced by highly vulnerable populations.
"By taking local action, we can deliver on the promise of the SDGs," she said.
Mohammed said she observed the outcomes of the UN's support for criminal justice reform at the Manila City Jail during her visit.
"From prison decongestion and access to justice to initiatives like 'Read Your Way Out' and improved health care, this partnership is advancing conditions for prisoners to rejoin society," she added.
She commended the Pasig City government for creating green and inclusive jobs that accelerate the national transition to a circular economy.
"My colleagues from @UNPhilippines are a constant inspiration. They work tirelessly to support a better future for the people of the Philippines, harnessing the collective expertise of the @UN to drive tangible local progress on the SDGs," Mohammed added.
In 2015, UN member states, including the Philippines, adopted the SDGs to end poverty and attain global peace by 2030.
At least 193 countries have committed to prioritizing the progress of 17 SDGs — consisting of 169 targets and 232 unique indicators that cover economic, social and environmental dimensions of development — which are expected to be used to frame country agendas and policies until 2030.