During the recent press briefing at Malacañang for the International Conference on Women, Peace, and Security (ICWPS), Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah "Mina" Pangandaman delivered a message that resonated deeply with me.

She stated, "The participation of various nations reaffirms our shared commitment to peace, equality, and the essential role of women in these efforts. Indeed, we are shaping a more inclusive and secure Bagong Pilipinas, at the same time, we are promoting women as key drivers of peace and security. This cannot be overstated: when women lead, communities thrive, conflicts are resolved and nations grow stronger."

Her powerful words capture the essence of the global advocacy of Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) surrounding this landmark event. It also goes beyond rhetoric, embodying the country’s real strides in integrating women into peace processes, especially in the conflict-affected Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Hearing Secretary Mina deliver this message filled me with immense pride and anticipation for the upcoming ICWPS. This groundbreaking event is not only the first ministerial-level conference in the Philippines dedicated to advancing the WPS agenda but also a crucial milestone in the country's efforts to promote gender inclusivity in peacebuilding.

Set to take place at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) from Oct. 28 to 30, the ICWPS will bring together global leaders and advocates to discuss transformative solutions that could shape the future of peace and security. The event underscores the Philippines' endeavors ensuring that women are at the forefront of these critical discussions, paving the way for more inclusive, resilient peace efforts on a global scale.

There are two parts to this conference, particularly the Ministerial Segment and the Thematic Discussions. For the former, top government officials from various countries will review the progress of the WPS agenda. 

Meanwhile, four thematic sessions are focused on key areas namely the role of women in peace processes, the implementation of National Action Plans on WPS (NAPWPS), the intersection of women and climate security, and WPS financing, which the DBM will be conducting. The last will explore innovative strategies to secure sustainable resources for WPS programs.

The main outcome of this conference is expected to be the approval of the "Manila Declaration," a key document that will reaffirm global commitments to the WPS agenda. This declaration will emphasize the importance of expanding and protecting women’s roles in peace processes, ensuring they stay at the forefront of negotiations, conflict resolution, and post-conflict recovery.

Now, more than ever, we are called to continue this momentum of the Philippines as one of the leaders in WPS. That’s why I admire Secretary Mina for leading the charge in this initiative. Her role as co-chair of the Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB) has strengthened collaboration between the national government and the Bangsamoro region. As a Gawad Kapayapaan awardee, she is recognized for promoting peace and economic development in conflict-affected areas. Her work sets a powerful example of how inclusivity drives sustainable peace, making her a vital advocate for the WPS agenda.

However, the path toward lasting peace requires not only government action but also the dedication of individuals who believe in the transformative power of women in peacebuilding.

By becoming advocates for the WPS agenda, we can help shape a future where peace is not just a goal, but a shared reality—one where women lead, communities thrive, and nations grow stronger.

I hope all of us can carry forward the vision that Sec. Mina embodies, ensuring that peace and security are built on the foundation of inclusivity, equality, and collaboration. Join us in this vital movement, and let’s make a lasting impact in the pursuit of a more peaceful world.

There is Hope!