In celebration of the International Day of the Girl, the Singapore Embassy in Manila welcomed four Grade 10 students from Fort Bonifacio High School—Aira, Bella, Princess, and Rizzi—as “Ambassadors for a Day” on Oct. 22, 2025.

Observed globally every October, the International Day of the Girl highlights the need to invest in girls’ education, amplify their voices, and expand opportunities for them to thrive. This year, Spark! Philippines, a local NGO, and the Department of Education collaborated with several foreign embassies in Metro Manila to give local students a glimpse into the world of diplomacy, international relations, and leadership.

Led by Singapore Ambassador Constance See, the day began at the embassy located in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City—a dynamic symbol of Singapore-Philippine friendship. The four students were introduced to the embassy’s political, administrative, and consular work, gaining firsthand insights into how diplomatic missions operate. They learned about the partnerships between Singapore and the Philippines across a wide range of sectors, from trade and investment, education, and skills development to healthcare, infrastructure, and climate action.

Over a lunch of Singaporean classics like chili crab and Hainanese chicken rice, the students engaged with two trailblazing Singaporean women business leaders—Tai Liwei, general manager of Singapore Airlines Philippines, and Yvonne Lee, managing director of DHL Global Forwarding Philippines. They shared their journeys of resilience, mentorship, and overcoming challenges, encouraging the girls to dream boldly and lead with purpose.

In the afternoon, the group joined Ambassador See for a courtesy call with Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano, who spoke passionately about women’s leadership and the city’s ongoing healthcare partnerships with Singapore, including initiatives supported by Temasek Foundation. The students asked thoughtful questions about public service and how women can drive change in their communities.

Mayor Cayetano said, “Seeing these young Taguiguenas take their first steps toward leadership reminds us that the future is bright when girls are given the chance to lead, speak up, and make a difference.”

The day ended on a meaningful note at Taguig-Pateros District Hospital, where the students toured the new Center for Women and Children. They learned about Taguig City’s collaboration with Singapore’s KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital and Temasek Foundation to enhance maternal and child health services through capacity building, strengthening data systems and infrastructure, and knowledge sharing. The students helped distribute hygiene kits to new mothers, embodying empathy in action.

This initiative is part of Singapore’s broader commitment to gender equality, youth development, and regional cooperation.

Ambassador See said, “When girls are given the opportunity to lead, they lift communities with them. We hope this experience inspires the students to use their voices, build bridges, and create a bright and inclusive future.”

Happy International Day of the Girl!