The Department of Education (DepEd), led by Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte, underscored the importance of providing a safer digital community for the protection of children and women. “I urge everyone to work with vigor and enthusiasm in promoting the advancement of inclusive digital education,” said Duterte during this year’s celebration of International Women’s Day. “As we narrow the gender gap to digital accessibility, let us also remain relentless in fighting gender-based violence committed against our Filipino women and girls at home,” she added. Duterte also advocated for the strengthening of mutual efforts to protect the rights and welfare of women, children, and adolescent girls in vulnerable situations alongside the promotion of a safer digital community in the country. Moreover, she added that DepEd remains committed to addressing child abuse and strengthening the protection of all Filipino children. To ensure that Filipino children are safe, both online and offline, Duterte mentioned the establishment of the Learner Rights and Protection Office (LRPO) and the Learners TeleSafe Contact Center Helpline “where they can report cases of abuse, including online child sexual exploitation.”

Women in innovation, technology

Duterte also recognized the contributions of women in innovation and technology, calling them “integral players” in nation-building. “We have seen, and we will continue to see women leading the way in politics, business, peace advocacy, media, manufacturing, social development, and other crucial sectors and aspects of our society,” Duterte said. Meanwhile, Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) Executive Director Kristine Yuzon-Chavez likewise underscored the safety and security of women amidst the dangers and risks of the digital realm. “There should be no room for privacy breaches, gender stereotypes, body shaming, sexual harassment, electronic VAW (Violence Against Women), and trafficking in persons in cyberspace. Instead, let’s make digital their space to thrive, connect, inspire, and excel,” she said. With the theme “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality," the DepEd celebration commemorated the cultural, political, and socio-economic achievements of women around the globe. It also raised awareness and addressed the concerns on relevant issues on a gender transformative approach through a panel discussion that focused on “Striving towards Gender Equality in the Field of Technology.”