Advocating for an inclusive economy is the central work of the US government in the Philippines.
That was what US top diplomat in Manila, MaryKay Carlson, assured Filipino women entrepreneurs on Saturday as she expressed Washington's support for those pursuing businesses in the country.
During the Women Summit 2023 organized by Go Negosyo, Carlson vowed that the US "will continue to partner with the Philippines to promote economic inclusion as part of our shared effort to increase prosperity for all Filipinos."
This, "as we work together to develop a prosperous future," she added.
The ambassador made the pronouncement after highlighting that "diversity, fairness and inclusion are qualities that make our workforces more competitive, and our marketplaces more dynamic."
In fact, Washington launched the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), where various nationalities, including a Filipino woman, were beneficiaries.
The hybrid program combines the use of DreamBuilder—an online business training curriculum developed by Arizona State University’s Thunderbird School of Global Management—with in-class mentoring and facilitation. It aims to provide members with the confidence and technical skills needed to start sustainable businesses.
"Programs like AWE are a part of a broader US commitment to the future of women here in the Philippines and around the world," Carlson said.
"How we frame women's participation in all sectors of society lays the foundation for the opportunities that women and girls will have as tomorrow's decision makers," she added.