Women and girls represent 50% of the global population and therefore, 50% of the world’s potential. Gender equality is not only a fundamental right but also crucial for achieving peaceful societies and inclusive development. However, the United Nations warns that there is still a long way to go to achieve full equality of rights and opportunities between men and women.
Inspired by this statement, I want to share my own experience in the workplace and the lessons I’ve learned throughout my professional life. While I was fortunate enough to be treated fairly and mentored by exceptional individuals in the professional services and accounting industry, the challenges faced by women remain persistent. The work environment has evolved over the years, but the obstacles women encounter have not become any easier.
Many people ask me why I decided to focus on gender equality and women’s empowerment. My answer is simple: I believe that privilege comes with the responsibility to help others enjoy the same opportunities I’ve had. We all have unconscious biases, and although progress has been made in some areas, the fight for genuine gender equality continues on multiple fronts.
According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, the Philippines ranks as the most gender-equal country in Asia. However, biases against women have not improved in the past decade. The UN Development Programme’s Gender Social Norms Index reveals that nine out of 10 women and men still hold biases against women, including women themselves. This belief contributes to the notion that men are better leaders and managers than women in politics and the economy, limiting women’s economic potential.
Efforts have been made to analyze the current state of gender diversity in Philippine corporations and understand how gender norms impact economic productivity. Research studies conducted by the Philippine Women’s Economic Network, in partnership with the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment and the Makati Business Club, have identified opportunities for the private sector to address existing and potential issues related to gender inequality.
These studies found that women often step back from their careers during the child-rearing phase, while men are expected to increase their financial support for the family. Additionally, caring responsibilities are seen as hindering women’s careers, creating one of the biggest barriers to their advancement. C-level executives must address these issues themselves to promote gender equality.
Various studies have provided practical recommendations to increase awareness of gender diversity, equity, and inclusion. These initiatives can serve as a starting point for private sector firms, including implementing family-friendly policies, providing equal economic incentives for women to stay in the workforce, and reducing barriers to economic participation for expectant mothers and solo parents.
As the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg said, “Fight for the things that you care about but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” Ultimately, achieving true gender equality requires changing societal mindsets and behaviors. Everyone has the potential to lead the movement for change and contribute to a world free of gender bias and discrimination.
Ma. Aurora “Boots” Geotina-Garcia, as the founding chair and president of the Philippine Women’s Economic Network, chair of the Governing Council of the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, and co-convenor of the Champions of Change Coalition Philippines, is actively involved in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment.
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