Pasig City, March 31, 2025—The Development Academy of the Philippines, through its Graduate School of Public and Development Management (DAP-GSPDM), marked International Women’s Month through its latest session of the Dekalogo Governance Lecture Series titled “Sustaining Magna Carta of Women Conversation through Study, Sharing, and Action.” The session aimed to address ongoing challenges faced by women, both globally and locally, fostering discussions on advancing gender equality.

In her opening remarks, DAP Officer-in-Charge Magdalena L. Mendoza acknowledged the significant strides made by the Magna Carta of Women in advancing women’s rights and empowerment in the Philippines. However, she emphasized that the journey toward achieving full gender equality is far from complete. Mendoza urged the participants to reflect on the session’s insights and translate them into actionable steps to drive meaningful change in their  communities.

DAP-GSPDM Dean Lizan E. Perante-Calina highlighted the critical role of ethical leadership in achieving gender equality. She stressed the importance of overcoming cultural and structural barriers to true progress. Drawing attention to the essential role of women as the “ilaw ng tahanan” in both families and government, she posed a thought-provoking question: “How can we, as individuals and as a society, continue to support and elevate women, ensuring that their voices are not just heard but are integral to shaping the future we want to make?”

The event featured esteemed speakers who shared critical insights into women empowerment and highlighted areas where improvement is still needed. Founding Chairperson and President of the Philippine Women’s Economic Network (PhilWEN) Ma. Aurora “Boots” Geotina-Garcia presented striking statistics revealing the disparities between women and men in the financial sector. She also discussed how PhilWEN has addressed these issues through targeted initiatives and policies.

While the Magna Carta of Women celebrates the journey of women towards emancipation, Assistant Professor Maritess D. Cruz of  the University of the Philippines’ Department of Women and Development Studies pointed out that these rights are often only recognized when they align with traditional gender norms. Echoing Cruz’s views, Sigrid Jan Sibug, Strategic Planning and Coordination Analyst of the United Nations Women Philippines, placed the nation’s progress on gender equality within an international context. She discussed how women suffer from non-gender inclusive approaches during natural disasters, noting the Philippines’ setbacks in achieving gender equality. To address this, Sibug emphasized the need for localized action that respects, protects, and fulfills the state’s obligations towards women.

Participating via Zoom, Mikaela Mendoza Ortega, Angat Bayi Fellow 2018 and Mentor of Bayi, Inc., shared her experiences as a woman in politics. She spoke about the challenges mothers face and the innovations that improved women’s daily lives in the workplace. “If we can move beyond the Magna Carta of Women as a law… if we can infuse it into our everyday living, it’s easier for us to be able to move forward and champion the things we advocate for,” she emphasized.

The event concluded with DAP Gender and Development Technical Working Group Chairperson Pag-asa L. Dogelio, who reminded participants that true action begins with learning. She encouraged everyone to work together in fostering a more gender-responsive and equitable society.