Manila: As the country observes National Women's Month, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) said women participation in various peace activities is an effective way of strengthening the process. "We strongly believe that the key to strengthening, protecting and moving our peace processes forward is through ensuring the participation and leadership of women across various peace agendas and giving them a seat at the peace table," Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said in a video message posted at the OPAPRU Facebook page Sunday night.

According to Philippines News Agency, with this year's theme "WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society," Galvez stated that it is imperative for OPAPRU to assist in building a Bagong Pilipinas that empowers and recognizes the vital role of women in all their diverse and intersecting identities. "As the national peace agency, the OPAPRU is at the forefront of efforts to champion women empowerment and gender equality across all aspects of the comprehensive Philippine peace process," he added.

Galvez highlighted the Philippines' participation in the 70th session of the United Nations (UN) Commission on the Status of Women this March as a significant opportunity for the country to demonstrate its leadership in women empowerment in conflict mediation and peace building. "Aside from participating in this conference, the Philippines will continue to hold key leadership roles in (the) ASEAN Women Peace and Security Agenda. It is truly an honor for our country to be given that opportunity to contribute to regional cooperation," he said.

Meanwhile, the OPAPRU chief mentioned that the month-long celebration of National Women's Month should serve as a chance for the country to reflect on how it can address the challenges that Filipino women are currently facing. He emphasized, "Women empowerment and gender equality remain on top of the country's Philippine policy agenda."