BEYOND BUDGET
Assalamu alaikum wa Raḥmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In my March 12 article, I discussed the significance of International Women's Day and the month of March as Women's Month, a time to honor women’s contributions to nation-building and heighten the push for gender equality and women’s rights, locally and globally.
These advocacies have always been close to my heart. As the first Muslim woman to lead the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the only woman in the country’s current economic team, I feel privileged to be in a leadership position where I can effect positive change and be a voice for women in our country.
Thus, I was pleasantly surprised and humbled when I was recognized as an “Outstanding Filipina in the Field of Public Service” during the Gawad Pilipino Women's Awards Night on March 16. This year’s Awards celebrated empowered women with outstanding contributions toward achieving women’s empowerment and equality for prosperity and sustainable development.
In a world where women’s efforts are often overlooked, I believe this award affirms the vital role of women in driving progress, whether in government, business, education, healthcare, or at home. I consider it an honor to be recognized alongside so many dedicated, strong, and inspiring women—reinforcing my belief that I am on the right track.
When I learned about this award, I couldn’t help but remember the most brilliant Filipinas in our history—those who opened doors for women, fought for their principles, and proved that nothing is impossible with determination.
The first to come to mind was former DBM Secretary Emilia Boncodin, the first female Budget Secretary, known for her honesty, outstanding skill in managing public funds, and pursuit of transparency and good governance. I am proud to follow in her footsteps as the second female appointed to the position.
Another outstanding woman is one of my greatest mentors, a model for good governance, and a friend—Senator Loren Legarda. She is a known advocate for climate action, disaster resilience, and cultural preservation. Working with her when she served as Senate Finance Committee Chair was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.
I am also proud to highlight my fellow Gawad Kapayapaan awardee, Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, who is the first female chief negotiator in the world to sign a final peace accord with a non-state armed group. Through her various works, she has supported peacebuilding initiatives, advocating for the inclusion of women and youth in peace processes globally.
More women have fought and trailblazed for a more inclusive, just, and equal society—ordinary women who, in their own way, are making a difference and contributing to our country's progress.
One of these women is closest to my heart—my Mommy, Nancy Pangandaman. She has been my first teacher and first inspiration. From her, I learned values such as industry, patience, and strength in the face of challenges, and the importance of pursuing my dreams with determination. She has shaped me into a person with integrity and love for family and the country. I thank my loving Mommy and all the amazing mothers out there.
I also share this recognition with the women of the DBM who have always had my back, often extending work hours to review our budget. Together, we constantly and bravely face challenges to ensure funds are used wisely to serve the best interests of our people. They help me guarantee that gender-responsive budgeting and inclusive policies are not just ideas on paper but are integrated into our national agenda, ensuring women’s empowerment is reflected in how we allocate resources, implement programs, and measure progress.
Let me also express my admiration for all the hardworking women out there. I know countless other women who are just as, if not more, deserving of this recognition—those who work tirelessly behind the scenes, breaking barriers without fanfare, leading, serving, and fighting for a better future without expecting any awards in return.
Being a woman in a leadership role, especially in governance and finance, requires a profound commitment to making every policy and program uplift the quality of life of every Filipino, especially women. By enabling women, we raise entire communities, generations, and ultimately, our nation.
Thus, this award serves as a constant reminder of that commitment. I consider this a challenge and an impetus to double, if not triple, my efforts in championing gender equality, making sure that every Filipina has a voice, a platform, and a future where she can thrive.
To the organizers of the Gawad Pilipino Women’s Awards, thank you for recognizing and celebrating the strength, resilience, excellence, and contributions of Filipina leaders.
Beyond budget, the Gawad Pilipino Women's Awards and other awards recognizing women are not merely about honoring a few. I truly believe they shine a light on our potent collective force as women, the battles we continue to fight, and the victories we will achieve together. Let us join hands in building a better, more inclusive Bagong Pilipinas.
My sincere congratulations to my fellow awardees. Maraming salamat po, at mabuhay tayong mga kababaihan ng ating Bagong Pilipinas! Again, Happy Women's Month!
(Amenah F. Pangandaman is the Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management.)