IN her opening address at the International Conference on Women, Peace, and Security (ICWPS), Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman highlighted the Philippine government's dedication to empowering women during crises.

She expressed sympathy for communities affected by Tropical Storm Kristine, noting the unique challenges faced by women in these situations.

Pangandaman connected the storm's impact to the need for increased climate action and collaboration on gender equity.

Reflecting on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, she discussed how it has ftered global initiatives for women's roles in peace and security.

She noted the Philippines' progress in advancing the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda through the efforts of the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Philippine Commission on Women, and others.

Pangandaman emphasized the "Women's Budget" in the General Appropriations Act, requiring government agencies to allocate 5 percent of their budgets to gender-related programs.

She also praised the Bangsamoro Women Commission's role in peacebuilding in BARMM, which will hold its first elections in 2025.

Encouraging collaboration among international delegates, she urged participants to "listen" and support women as agents of positive change in addressing global security challenges.

The ICWPS, a first-of-its-kind ministerial-level event, brings together global leaders to further women's roles in peacebuilding and will continue over the next three days.

action at ICWPS