MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. urged world leaders to place women’s education at the center of global development efforts, warning that progress toward equality and inclusive growth will remain elusive if girls continue to face barriers to learning.
Addressing the 70th session of the United Nations (UN) Commission on the Status of Women in New York, Marcos stressed that educating girls is a powerful driver of social and economic advancement, benefiting not only individuals but entire societies.
“Education must remain at the center of all our efforts. When a girl is educated, the benefits extend far beyond the individual,” Marcos said in his address.
“They strengthen families, uplift communities, and expand the possibilities of entire nations,” he added.
The President also paid tribute to Filipino women, describing them as a vital force in shaping the country’s development and democratic institutions.
At the same time, Marcos acknowledged that women across the globe continue to face serious challenges, including discrimination, violence, and unequal access to opportunities.
“But beyond laws and institutions, we must also address the attitudes and assumptions that continue to limit women’s roles in many parts of the world. True equality requires not only policy change, but cultural change,” Marcos said.
“Women must be present wherever decisions are made – in government, in business, in science, in diplomacy, and in peacebuilding. The Philippines stands ready to work with all nations to advance this cause,” he added.
Marcos is in New York for a two-day working visit that includes participation in United Nations events and meetings with global leaders. He is also scheduled to meet United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of the gathering.
The President is expected to remain in the United States until Wednesday, March 11./PN
