After leading the Philippine delegation in the latest United Nations (UN) meeting in New York City, Budget Secretary Amenah “Mina” Pangandanaman hopes to target period poverty and other pressing matters through a whole-of-government approach.

Pangandaman, who has recently presented the country’s advancements in women’s rights at the 68th UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68), expressed her support for accessible menstrual health. 

As she acknowledged that menstruation continues to be a taboo discussion in the Philippines, Pangandaman stated that “[Period poverty] is something that we need to address urgently, even as we address other issues such as financial literacy and financial inclusion of women.”

“It’s a real problem– in fact, it’s a global community health dilemma that affects women and girls,” she added.

Those who lack access to menstrual products like sanitary napkins, and hygiene materials fall under period poverty.

This universal issue also restricts women and children from getting a comprehensive reproductive education, thus creating physical, mental, and emotional problems.

The DBM chief acknowledges the challenges faced by many Filipino women, therefore a study will be initiated to determine what specific actions can be taken by the national government.

“With a population of almost 120 million that is almost 50 percent female,  we need to understand the social, cultural, economic, and even political barriers to menstrual products, education, and sanitation, as well as its impact on health issues ranging from urinary tract infections to depression.”

She also emphasized targeting communities vulnerable to the reproductive challenges like girls in public schools.

“It can even be a barrier to accessing quality education and staying in school,” Pangandaman highlighted her concern.

“Not having menstrual care products and reproductive education can have serious consequences on both physical and emotional health.”

Last Tuesday, the budget secretary showcased the Philippines’ commitment to poverty eradication, as well as the initiatives for gender equality, empowerment, and inclusivity of women and children as per Philippine Development Plan 2023 to 2028 and Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Plan 2019 to 2025.

The UN meet, which focused on women’s rights, allows various government, civil society members, experts, and activists to exchange discourse on gender equality and female empowerment.