In celebration of Women’s Month, the House of Representatives yesterday featured an all-women ensemble of officers—from the presiding officer to the majority leader—leading the plenary session.
“It is an honor to be present today (Monday) with fellow women who work tirelessly to make the Philippines a better place for our countrymen,” said Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez in her brief opening remark before the plenary sessions.
“Women are powerful agents of change, and the advancement of women in the society, including increased leadership and decision-making roles, is a positive indicator of progress for all of us,” she added.
Based on existing House rules, Speaker Martin Romualdez designated women lawmakers—Yedda Romualdez, Linabelle Ruth Villarica, Florida Robes, Rosanna Vergara, Lorna Silverio, Anna York Bondoc, Ma. Lucille Nava, Ruth Mariano-Hernandez, Midy Cua, Ysabel Maria Zamora, and Margarita Nograles as presiding officers during yesterday’s session.
Rep. Yedda—the Speaker’s wife—said different facets of society are becoming more aware of the significant benefits of gender balance and diversity, recognizing that societies thrive where women are given equal opportunities and respect.
“Today, in line with our celebration of all womanhood this National Women’s Month, I welcome you all in this year’s all-women Session here in Congress. May this simple gesture of handing over power to the women be the platform for positive change as we continue to lead our nation to a kinder and gentler world for the next generation of women,” she said.
Throughout the world, Rep. Yedda said women have been shattering glass ceilings and laying down a path for other women to walk on, from fighting for the right to suffrage to being able to lead nations and influence economies.
“Women have become trailblazers and powerful figures in their own fields of specialization and the world can no longer deny us of our rightful place in society’s leadership,” she said.