As he acknowledged the challenges that they face, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has assured Filipino women that his administration remains committed to providing them with more prominent roles in government.

Marcos said this as he led the awarding ceremony for the 2023 Outstanding Women in Law Enforcement and National Security in Malacañang on Wednesday, March 22.

In his speech, the President acknowledged that there were still challenges that block women's progress despite the country’s great strides in promoting gender equality.

“I assure you of this administration’s steadfast pursuits to provide women with more prominent roles as well as a greater voice, especially in government,” he said.

“This administration shall continue to implement concrete and comprehensive measures to increase women's representation in the security sector and government service towards creating a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable society,” he added.

According to Marcos, the government would continue working with civil society groups and the private sector in a whole-of-society approach to advance women’s rights and promote equal opportunities.

Tiniyak niya ang na ang administrasyon ay magpapatupad ng mga konkreto at kumprehensibong hakbang upang mapalawak ang representasyon ng kababaihan sa gobyerno. pic.twitter.com/mJcLlMTnMV

— Presidential Communications Office (@pcogovph) March 22, 2023

He said the Philippines was the first in the region to formulate a National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security that provided comprehensive action points to improve the role and status of women in the security sector.

With this, the President hoped that the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPPRU) would update the action plan as the government recognizes women's abilities.

Addressing the awardees, Marcos challenged them to continue serving the country with the same passion and perseverance that led them to Wednesday’s awarding rites.

“Let us work together on creating conditions for women to make choices, thrive in their chosen careers, and fulfill their goals and aspirations for themselves, their families, and the country,” he said.

The Chief Executive thanked the awardees for their dedication to sustaining peace and order in local communities and ensuring the country’s safety by fighting on the frontlines at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Marcos said they had broken gender stereotypes and showed young girls they could excel even in male-dominated professions.

“We all salute your efforts to look after your families while at the same time risking your lives without any hesitation to safeguard the well-being of the Filipino people. It is high time that these contributions are recognized and valued,” the President said.