President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed his administration's unwavering commitment to creating expanded opportunities for women to lead and fully realize their potential. In a statement released on Sunday, March 8, 2026, coinciding with International Women's Day and the start of National Women's Month, Marcos emphasized that the strength and vision of women are absolutely vital in constructing a more just and inclusive nation.
Tribute to Filipino Women's Enduring Contributions
Marcos paid a heartfelt tribute to Filipino women, recognizing their enduring and pivotal role in shaping the nation's history and future. He underscored their long-standing contributions, noting that even before the global community formally acknowledged women's achievements, they were already profoundly influencing society through what he described as "excellence, courage, and selfless devotion."
The President portrayed women as a formidable and powerful force in nation-building. He stated that they embody "strength with grace and grit with compassion," qualities that have been instrumental in shaping the identity, core values, and future trajectory of nations across countless generations.
A Filipina's Resilience and Dedication
"To be a woman is to carry many responsibilities at once. A Filipina does this with resilience and heart, turning obstacles into opportunities and hardship into hope," Marcos said. "Where there is care, there is a woman. Where there is sacrifice, there is a Filipina giving her all so that others may have a better future. Much of what women do happens away from recognition, yet it is this steady dedication that keeps our nation strong and moving forward."
He provided a firm assurance, adding, "Rest assured that this administration remains steadfast in its commitment to ensure that every woman is heard, respected, and empowered in our society. We honor her courage, wisdom, and vital role in nation-building, just as we value her achievements, her leadership, and her presence in our lives."
Vice President Duterte Calls for Concrete Action
Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte expressed her solidarity with Filipino women while issuing a powerful call for the establishment of stronger systems that will genuinely support women across all sectors of society. Duterte honored the remarkable resilience and multifaceted contributions of women, stating that the past year had once again demonstrated the profound depth of their strength in facing crises and spearheading the rebuilding of communities.
"Women do not just survive crises -- we rebuild lives and communities," the Vice President declared.
Highlighting Diverse Roles and Need for Systemic Support
She highlighted the vast array of roles women play in Philippine society, from mothers skillfully stretching limited household budgets, to farmers courageously recovering from devastating floods, and overseas Filipino workers supporting their families from afar. Duterte affirmed that Filipino women continue to serve as the strong and indispensable foundation of the nation.
However, she stressed that recognition of women's resilience must transcend mere praise. "But it is time to move beyond just praising our resilience," Duterte asserted. "Panahon na upang maglatag tayo ng mga sistemang tunay na susuporta sa ating lakas (It's time for us to lay down systems that truly support our strength)."
The Vice President detailed the urgent need for concrete and actionable support systems. This includes implementing stronger legal and social protection for workers in the informal sector, providing climate-resilient assistance and resources for women farmers, and ensuring better access to financing and capital for women entrepreneurs.
Empowerment as a Strategy for National Development
Duterte underscored a critical perspective, emphasizing that supporting women is not merely an act of goodwill or charity. Instead, it is a fundamental and key strategy for achieving inclusive national development and sustainable growth. "It is a strategy for inclusive growth," she stated unequivocally.
In her concluding remarks, Vice President Duterte called on all Filipinos to work collaboratively in building a society where every Filipina can lead with dignity and where young girls inherit boundless opportunities, not just overwhelming responsibilities.
