PBCWE Lead (January to June 2025)

Dear Members and Partners, Welcome to the January–June 2025 issue of PBCWE Lead!

As we turn the page to the second half of 2025, we take a moment to reflect on the milestones, partnerships, and opportunities that have shaped our journey so far.

The first half of this year has been a testament to the sustained momentum behind Workplace Gender Equality (WGE), Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), a momentum that PBCWE and its members have endeavored to lead through bold commitments, evidence-based strategies, and collective action.

From the GEARS Action Planning Workshops and successful completion of GEARS assessments, PBCWE member companies continue to demonstrate their commitment to advancing inclusive workplace practices. We also had the opportunity to conduct WGE- and DEI-focused trainings, underscoring our commitment to capacity building across industries.

In April this year, we saw the election of PLDT Inc. into PBCWE’s Governing Council, alongside the welcoming of new member companies into the coalition, including ING Hubs Philippines, Jollibee Foods Corporation, Capital One Philippines, Global Dominion Financing Corporation, South Asialink Finance Corporation, Quisumbing Torres, Straive, NYK-TDG Maritime Academy, and Manila Water Corporation—bringing our voice for WGE and DEI to 53-member strong.

This growth is a clear affirmation of the increasing commitment among private sector leaders to institutionalize gender equality in the workplace, with more companies dedicating themselves to measurable and impactful change.

These six months have shown us the power of connection between members, partners, and industries to scale bold action. Each initiative, workshop, and collaboration served as a building block toward a more inclusive business ecosystem.

Thank you for being part of this growing coalition. We hope this issue of PBCWE Lead inspires you to continue championing inclusive, safe, and equitable workplaces.

Warm regards, Carlo Abayon PBCWE Communications & Marketing Officer

Dear Members and Partners, This issue marks the second year of our bi-annual newsletter, PBCWE Lead. We envision this newsletter to serve as a platform for PBCWE members to showcase their best practices and learn from each other, while advancing our advocacies of Workplace Gender Equality (WGE), and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

Our performance in the first semester of this year demonstrates that our Coalition is only as effective as its members. We are proud to share that we now have 53 thriving member companies–all industry leading businesses in their respective sectors. This newsletter will feature our annual General Membership Meeting and Gender Working Group Meeting where these 53 companies and PBCWE , reaffirmed our commitment as a coalition with the theme “Intersectional Approaches for Inclusive Growth.”

Our work continues to ensure lasting and meaningful change as PBCWE collaborates with groups that are passionate in advancing gender equality in the workplace and beyond. Just recently, through PhilWEN, we formalized our partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to create a Coalition for Reproductive Justice in Business (CRJB) in the Philippines, aimed at mainstreaming the reproductive health agenda. The different channels for achieving WGE emphasize the importance of DEI. Given changes in the current international political climate, there is a greater need to emphasize that the advocacy for greater inclusion and representation of women is always the smart and right choice.

Indeed a herculean task, which we can achieve as a coalition by drawing on each other’s expertise and strengths. Now, more than ever, we must staunchly advocate for diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplaces in the Philippines.

Warm regards, Ma. Aurora “Boots” Geotina-Garcia PhilWen Founding Chairperson President PBCWE Governing Council Chairperson

PBCWE Elects PLDT Inc. to Governing Council, Strengthening Commitment to Gender Equality PBCWE held its 14th Governing Council Meeting on April 24, 2025, in Makati City, Philippines.

The Governing Council plays a pivotal role in shaping PBCWE’s strategic direction, overseeing its programs, and championing Workplace Gender Equality (WGE) across businesses in the country.

During the meeting, PBCWE proudly welcomed PLDT Inc. as the newest member of its Governing Council. PLDT’s consistent leadership and active engagement in promoting gender equality serve as a powerful example for other businesses to embrace inclusive and equitable practices.

In 2021, PLDT and its wireless subsidiary, Smart Communications, Inc., became the first Philippine telecommunications companies to join the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE). Their participation highlights the PLDT Group’s strong commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), which is a key focus under the social pillar of its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) program.

PLDT’s election to the Governing Council further strengthens the collective commitment of PBCWE members to advancing women’s economic empowerment, alongside DEI in the workplace. Read more here.

Driving Inclusion: PBCWE Member Companies Champion Intersectionality at the 2025 GMM-GWG With the theme “Intersectional Approaches for Inclusive Growth,” PBCWE convened its member companies for the annual General Membership Meeting – Gender Working Group, held on June 19, 2025, at Makati Commerce Tower. The event featured experience-sharing through speeches, plenary discussions, and breakout sessions, and also recognized new coalition members and those who successfully completed the GEARS assessment.

Esteemed leaders and advocates for gender equality graced the event to show their support for the coalition. The program opened with a welcome address from Ms. Boots, followed by a message from Ms. Julia Abad. Expressions of support were also shared by Mr. Daniel Simson, First Secretary (Economic) at the Australian Embassy to the Philippines, and Ms. Maya Juwita, Workplace Gender Equality Director of Investing in Women.

The plenary session focused on key topics including Intersectionality and the Inclusive Economy, Intersectional Identities and Allyship, and Policy Reforms. These discussions were led by distinguished speakers: Ronn Astillas, Chair of the Philippine LGBT Chamber of Commerce; Angelo Camaya, Chairperson of the Philippine Financial & Inter-Industry Pride; and Hon. Percival “Perci” Cendaña, Member of the Minority in the House Committee on Women & Gender Equality.

Following the session, the PBCWE Team facilitated an interactive activity that encouraged participants to engage with one another while applying their newly gained insights on intersectionality. This was followed by updates on membership finances and the official launch of the Policy Working Group.

To conclude the event on a high note, participants engaged in breakout sessions where they explored key topics such as STEM-related initiatives, peer network groups, intersectionality and DEI, proposed legal reforms, and leadership and executive buy-in. Through these discussions, PBCWE reinforced its commitment to promoting intersectionality and advancing workplace equality across businesses in the Philippines.

Looking ahead, PBCWE and its member companies reaffirm their dedication to this vital work—ensuring that the principles of intersectionality are deeply embedded in workplace culture, and paving the way for a more equitable, inclusive, and empowering environment for all. Read more here.

Flag Raising Ceremony: To officially kick off the celebration of Women’s Month, the Philippine Women’s Economic Network (PhilWEN), together with PBCWE and its member women’s business organizations, gathered at Luneta Park for a meaningful flag-raising ceremony. Members proudly wore vibrant traditional Filipino attire, showcasing unity and cultural pride.

Ma. Aurora “Boots” Geotina-Garcia, Founding Chairperson and President of PhilWEN and Chairperson of the PBCWE Governing Council, delivered a heartfelt speech to commemorate the occasion. The event also paid tribute to world-renowned Filipino chef and restaurateur Margarita Forés, honoring her remarkable contributions to Filipino cuisine and her role in inspiring women chefs across the country.

GREAT Women Festival 2025: To officially launch this year’s Women’s Month, PBCWE co-organized the GREAT Women Festival 2025, held from February 28 to March 2. The festival featured inspiring talks and sessions led by empowered women, including PhilWEN Founding Chairperson and President, and PBCWE Governing Council Chairperson, Ms. Boots Geotina-Garcia, along with PBCWE Executive Director, Ms. Julia Abad.

Anchored on the theme “Power of the Network,” the event emphasized the importance of connecting with others to unlock opportunities and foster growth. A key takeaway from the speakers was the empowering message: “Plug into a network to empower yourself—because that’s where opportunities and growth begin. Your network is your net worth!”

PBCWE Applauds AXA Philippines’ Launch of their Diversity & Inclusion Program in Celebration of Women’s Month: With a vibrant fiesta-themed celebration at AXA Philippines’ corporate headquarters in Makati, AXA officially launched its Diversity & Inclusion Program. The first episode of EmpowerHer was broadcast live as the season opener of AXA’s CICO TV, marking a strong commitment to advancing women’s empowerment both within the company and in the broader community.

Hosted by AXA Philippines’ Head of Culture and Communications, Patrick Maghirang, the episode featured insightful conversations with PBCWE Executive Director Julia Abad, AXA Philippines’ Chief HR Officer Sharon Hernandez, and Chief Transformation and Technology Officer Carlos Santos. Their dialogue offered meaningful perspectives on accelerating gender equality and empowering women in the workplace.

The launch of AXA Philippines’ Diversity & Inclusion Program is a commendable step toward driving action on diversity, equity, and inclusion. PBCWE is proud to have AXA Philippines as a member for the past three years, as their initiatives continue to inspire and influence a wide audience—aligning with our shared goal of creating inclusive workplaces across the Philippines. Read more here.

Accelerating Action — Women Leading the Change: In celebration of International Women’s Day, ING Hubs Philippines partnered with PBCWE to host an inspiring event that brought together women leaders to share their experiences and perspectives. The event featured a dynamic panel of influential voices who offered valuable insights on advancing inclusivity and women’s empowerment.

The panel included Rocío Valladolid, Chief Information Officer (CIO) of ING Spain and Portugal; Rosario Aguilar, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of ING Spain and Portugal; Julia Abad, Executive Director of PBCWE; and Dove Subingsubing, Managing Partner at Evident Integrated Marketing & PR. Their collective message was clear: empowered women empower others—and continued action is essential to building a more inclusive society.

Infosys BPM Philippines’ Women’s Forum: PBCWE was honored to speak at Infosys BPM Philippines’ Women’s Forum held on April 14, 2025, in Taguig City. The event brought together women leaders and allies to discuss the ongoing challenges and progress in achieving gender equality.

Representing PBCWE, Executive Director Julia Abad delivered a compelling talk on how biases and stereotypes shape decisions and behaviors in the workplace. She emphasized that these ingrained perceptions often lead to inequities and missed opportunities for women. Her message underscored the need for actionable steps and a collective commitment to accelerate progress toward a more inclusive and equitable work environment.

2025 She Slays GirlCoded Convention: From March 28 to 30, 2025, PBCWE proudly partnered with the She Slays Girlcoded Convention held in Makati City, organized by Philstar.com. In line with our commitment to supporting women and their businesses, we invited Allena and Kaliya to showcase their arts, crafts, advocacy, and creative talents. The convention celebrated women-led enterprises and spotlighted artists whose work embodies the spirit of Girl Power.

To officially launch the event, PBCWE’s Program and Admin Officer, Christia de Castro, participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the start of an empowering and creative weekend. The convention featured engaging discussions, hands-on workshops, and vibrant activities that highlighted the strength and innovation of women in business and the arts.

Cebu Pacific Air’s #SoloParentsDay: Cebu Pacific Air celebrated #SoloParentsDay with a heartfelt session titled "The Care We Give, The Care We Need." The event aimed to honor the journey and contributions of solo parents, while fostering a supportive and empowering space for all.

Celso Santiago Jr., MPM, Program Director for PBCWE’s Leader for Change initiative, was among the featured speakers. In his talk, "Fatherhood Beyond Physical Presence," he highlighted the vital role of inclusive workplace programs and policies in supporting solo parents globally. He emphasized that creating safe and respectful spaces in the workplace is just the beginning—it must also extend to the home, where care and understanding are equally essential

Quisumbing Torres’ We’ve Got the Power Forum: On March 28, 2025, Quisumbing Torres, in partnership with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines–Makati Chapter, hosted the We’ve Got the Power forum in celebration of International Women’s Month. Centered on the theme “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” the event brought together inspiring women leaders to share their journeys and insights on advancing gender equality.

PBCWE Executive Director Julia Abad was among the distinguished speakers, sharing her experiences in breaking barriers and championing gender equality across various sectors. She also highlighted best practices for fostering safer and more inclusive workplaces for women. Julia was joined by fellow trailblazers, including Julie Anne Mararac, President of the Women Inter-Industry Network, and Divina Illas-Panganiban, Partner and Head of Quisumbing Torres’ Intellectual Property, Data, and Technology Practice Group. Together, they delivered powerful messages of empowerment and collective action.

Celebrating a decade of women empowherment and meaningful change Capital One Philippines celebrates 10 years of Empowher, a business resource group dedicated to elevating women and allies within and outside the organization. Through leadership workshops, mentoring programs, well-being initiatives, and community-driven efforts designed with growth in mind, Empowher underscores the company's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and belonging, with the goal of providing all associates with the resources and support they need to reach their full potential.

“What started as a small circle of support is now a thriving community of women and allies dedicated to empowering each other,” said Capital One Philippines Empowher Lead Mary Grace Garcia. “As we mark a decade of Empowher, we continue on our mission to elevate our voices, break barriers, create more space for growth, and advance our community. We’re proud of our initiatives in and out of the workplace, and even prouder of the impact this group has in cultivating a culture of belonging across Capital One.”

Manila Water’s Women’s Forum: In celebration of National Women’s Month, Manila Water hosted a forum in partnership with Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) Corporate Office, MWSS Regulatory Office, and Office Of The Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC), reaffirming their commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion across organizations. The event underscored the importance of ensuring individuals feel heard, valued, and empowered in their workplaces.

To honor and inspire women across various fields, Manila Water invited exceptional leaders to share their journeys of breaking barriers and thriving in traditionally male-dominated industries. Among the speakers was PBCWE Executive Director Julia Abad, who emphasized the importance of fostering safe and inclusive spaces and their transformative impact on women in the workplace. She highlighted that beyond visibility and voice, respect and recognition are essential to truly empowering women.

Sanofi Roundtable Discussion: Sanofi Philippines partnered with PBCWE for a roundtable discussion on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) landscape in the Philippines, as well as the findings from the Census on Women in Executive Leadership Teams study. The event took place on January 6, 2025, at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant in Intramuros.

PBCWE Executive Director Julia Abad and Leaders for Change Program Director JR Santiago led the discussion, sharing valuable insights on the pivotal role of diversity and gender equality in driving organizational success.

The discussion was attended by senior leaders and team members from Sanofi Philippines, along with prominent global leaders based in the country.

In addition to the roundtable, participants also toured Accenture in the Philippines’ innovative Accessibility Center in Mandaluyong. The visit showcased how technology can play a vital role in creating inclusive workplaces and advancing DEI initiatives.

GEARS Walkthrough Video: On January 27, 2025, PBCWE Executive Director Julia Abad virtually discussed how we support our member companies by utilizing GEARS (Gender Equality Assessment, Results, and Strategies).

This light-touch diagnostic tool helps our member companies identify gaps, opportunities, and strengths in their current strategies related to Workplace Gender Equality (WGE) and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

This presentation took place during the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) event, held in partnership with the Confederation of Danish Industry (DI), under the theme “The Employers Guide to Gender Audits: Creating Policies that Promote Workplace Inclusion. You may watch the video here.

Asialink Partners with PBCWE to Drive Gender Equality and Inclusion in the NBFI Sector Asialink Finance Corporation, a leading player in the Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFI) sector, conducted an Action Planning session with PBCWE on December 5, 2024, reaffirming its commitment to Workplace Gender Equality (WGE) following the successful completion of its Gender Equality Assessment Results and Strategy (GEARS) assessment.

The workshop, facilitated by Reuben James Barrete, Program Manager at PBCWE, highlighted the outcomes of the GEARS assessment and focused on developing Asialink’s Action Plan. The assessment identified key strengths across several critical areas, providing a foundation for enhancing company policies and workplace culture.

The resulting action plan aligns gender equality with business priorities and includes initiatives on leadership development, prevention of gender-based harassment and discrimination, and implementation of WGE training programs.

Apples Mangubat, Deputy CEO of Asialink Group of Companies, expressed appreciation for PBCWE’s support, stating: “We are happy that PBCWE has always been supportive in guiding Asialink in its efforts to create inclusive workplaces.”

Asialink’s partnership with PBCWE, along with its proactive approach to promoting gender equality, underscores its dedication to fostering an inclusive and healthy work environment. Read more here.

P&A Grant Thornton Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive Workplaces P&A Grant Thornton completed the final stage of its engagement with the GEARS assessment process on April 28, 2025. During this session, the firm conducted a collaborative action planning workshop, with active participation from its Senior and Executive Leadership Team.

The session was led by Romualdo “Boyet” V. Murcia III, Chairman and Managing Partner, and Atty.

Olivier D. Aznar, Vice Chairman, Deputy Managing Partner, and People & Culture Practice Leader.

Reuben James Barrete, Program Manager at PBCWE, presented P&A Grant Thornton’s vision board, which reflects and integrates the company’s priorities on Workplace Gender Equality (WGE) and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

The presentation provided an opportunity for leadership to assess and evaluate existing policies and programs, with a view to enhancing them in alignment with a stronger commitment to gender equality.

Through its partnership with PBCWE, P&A Grant Thornton is committed to institutionalizing WGE training across all organizational levels and implementing more inclusive practices, particularly in support of LGBTQIA+ inclusion. Read more here.

PwC AC Manila Strengthens Inclusion Strategy Through GEARS Action Planning Workshop PwC Acceleration Center Manila (AC Manila) reinforced its commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace through the successful conduct of its GEARS (Gender Equality Assessment, Results, and Strategies) Action Planning Workshop, held at The 30th Corporate Center in Pasig City.

The workshop convened the firm’s leaders and business unit heads to transform insights from the recently completed GEARS assessment into actionable strategies. Facilitated by Reuben James Barrete, Program Manager at the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE), the session marked a significant milestone in PwC AC Manila’s ongoing efforts to embed gender inclusivity into its business strategy and organizational culture.

As PwC AC Manila sharpens its Purpose and Inclusion strategy, the Action Planning Workshop reinforced a core message: inclusion is not a side initiative—it is central to organizational success. By grounding its plans in data, enhancing leadership accountability, and driving systemic change, PwC AC Manila is setting a benchmark for inclusive excellence in the professional services sector. Read more here.

A Leadership Platform for Inclusive Business and Empowered Communities Leaders for Change (LfC) is a dynamic leadership platform under the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE), built for CEOs and senior leaders who believe that leadership is not only about performance — it's about purpose, legacy, and impact.

Now fully integrated into PBCWE’s tiered membership, LfC provides senior leaders with exclusive access to curated spaces where they can learn from peers, amplify their voices, and shape the next generation of inclusive leaders.

What LfC What LfC Offers Offers 1. LeadersLink

2. StoriesLink

3. MentorsLink

Peer-to-Peer CEO Learning

Amplifying CEO Voices

Mentoring the Next Generation

Engage in meaningful, executive-level conversations through curated events such as:

Share your story, shape the narrative, and influence the national conversation.

Roundtable breakfasts Golf and networking events Charitable initiatives Strategic DEI exchanges

Media interviews & thought leadership features Published insights and leadership spotlights Research briefs and storytelling toolkits

Leave a legacy by guiding future inclusive leaders.

Co-developed mentorship journeys tailored to your leadership style Webinars, school partnerships, and leadership storytelling A platform to reflect, connect, and build lasting impact

Why It Matters Inclusive leadership starts at the top. LfC empowers you to move beyond compliance and become a visible, vocal, and values-driven leader. It's not just about being in the room — it’s about using your voice to change the room for others.

And when paired with GEARS, PBCWE’s flagship diagnostic tool, LfC becomes the natural next step — helping turn insights into leadership action and real workplace transformation.

LfC Is…

💭 A space to speak and be heard. 🤝 A circle of purpose-driven peers. ✨ A platform to lead with impact.

Join us. Lead the shift. Shape the future of inclusive business. www.pbcwe.com | jr.santiago@pbcwe.com | #LeadersForChange

Global Dominion Financing Partners with PBCWE to Advance Gender Equality in the Workplace Global Dominion Financing, Inc. (GDFI) has officially joined the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE) as its 46th member, reinforcing its commitment to workplace gender equality and inclusivity.

Through its onboarding with PBCWE, GDFI aims to align with shared goals and initiatives that promote Workplace Gender Equality (WGE), Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE), and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). The company is dedicated to implementing gender awareness programs, forging partnerships with like-minded organizations, and aligning internal policies with inclusive workplace practices.

A welcome event was held on April 28, 2025, in Pasig City, bringing together teams from PBCWE and GDFI. During the event, PBCWE Chairperson Ms. Boots Geotina-Garcia presented the coalition’s initiatives and the benefits of membership. As part of the partnership, GDFI will undertake the Gender Equality Assessment, Results, and Strategies (GEARS) program.

GDFI’s inclusion strengthens the collective push for meaningful change, particularly within non-bank financial institutions in the Philippines, where every voice is empowered and heard. Read more here.

Stronger Together: South Asialink Finance Corporation and PBCWE Unite for Gender Equality in the Workplace On May 23, 2025, the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE) officially welcomed South Asialink Finance Corporation (SAFC) as its newest member during a Welcome Event held in Pasig City.

The event was attended by SAFC’s senior leadership, led by President and CEO Kevin John Cabanban, PBCWE Executive Director Julia Bad, and their respective teams.

It provided SAFC with an opportunity to learn more about the coalition’s services, engagements, and the benefits and responsibilities of membership. PBCWE also shared its mission to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across the private sector.

SAFC’s inclusion strengthens the coalition’s efforts to create safe, inclusive, and equitable workplaces for all, regardless of gender. Read more here.

Carelon Global Solutions Philippines Joins PBCWE to Advance Workplace Gender Equality PBCWE proudly welcomes Carelon Global Solutions Philippines as its 50th member, further strengthening the coalition’s mission to foster inclusive and gender-equal workplaces across the country.

Carelon was officially welcomed into the coalition on Friday, May 23, 2025, marking the beginning of a meaningful partnership. As a healthcare solutions company committed to cultivating a diverse and equitable workplace culture, Carelon expressed its appreciation for the opportunity to join PBCWE and its enthusiasm for advancing women’s economic empowerment in the Philippines.

Carelon’s commitment to DEI aligns seamlessly with PBCWE’s vision of driving meaningful change in the private sector.

Their membership further expands the coalition’s growing network of companies championing leadership, opportunity, and equity for women in the workplace. Read more here.

From January 15 to 19 in Bohol and February 6 to 8 in Quezon City, the PBCWE team, along with representatives from its member companies, participated in a workshop organized by Intersex Philippines. The sessions were part of the PRIDE for SOGIESC Equality Project, which aimed to deepen participants' understanding of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), the principles of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC), and raise awareness on intersex and transgender issues. The workshops brought together 16 organizations and companies, fostering dialogue and collaboration toward more inclusive workplaces.

On June 11, PBCWE joined a timely and important conversation on advancing workplace diversity and inclusion for all genders. Program Manager Reuben James Barrete presented PBCWE’s Diversity Initiatives and Action Plan, emphasizing the role of the Gender Equality Assessment Results and Strategies (GEARS) diagnostic tool in helping member companies develop data-driven, inclusive policies and programs. He also highlighted how the GEARS framework has evolved to address broader diversity topics, such as reasonable accommodation, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and gender considerations in the supply chain.

Barrete further contributed to a panel discussion on the private sector’s strategic role in promoting inclusion through equitable policies and practices that uphold dignity and respect for all. He shared insights on new training offerings focused on inclusive leadership, SOGIESC awareness, and intersectionality—reflecting PBCWE’s commitment to addressing emerging inclusion themes tailored to the needs of Philippine businesses.

On March 5, 2025, PBCWE took part in the panel discussion during PFIP’s Q1 Membership Meeting and Fellowship Night. The event featured meaningful conversations on women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights, while also welcoming new members into the corporate pride community. With over 100 company representatives in attendance, PBCWE was represented by Amica Laine Francisco, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Manager. She shared valuable insights on leveraging data to develop policies and programs that are grounded in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles.

Good Tech Forward

Action Over Perfection

The launch of Elevate AIDA has opened new opportunities for women, empowering them with digital skills and access to the growing digital economy.

Read more here.

Recognizing and addressing women’s struggles is key to creating safe, healthy, and supportive workplaces—if others can do it, why can’t we? Read more here.

Celebrating Women’ Entrepreneurs Filipino women entrepreneurs continue to break barriers by building a more inclusive future. Read more here.

Divergent Perspectives on DEI: Is It Still Relevant?

DEI isn’t just a trend—it’s a transformative movement that values women, marginalized groups, and communities deserving of recognition and inclusion.

Read more here.

Diversity is Essential to Genuine Meritocracy Despite misconceptions, DEI and meritocracy are not at odds. In the Philippines, companies are embracing DEI as a core strategy that fuels innovation, talent retention, and competitiveness. Read more here.

Tough Love and Care

How CEOs Can Build Legacy through Inclusive Leadership

Care work—paid or unpaid— must be valued and respected at home and in the workplace, as emphasized by the UN’s 5Rs: recognize, reduce, redistribute, reward, and represent. Read more here.

Inclusive mentorship drives real results—diverse leadership, stronger engagement, and recognition as an employer of choice.

Read more here.

Capital Access and Financial Management for Sustainable MSMEs

Women Supporting Women: The Power of Mentorship and Networking

Sound financial management and access to the right funding are vital for MSME growth. With support from government and nongovernment initiatives, MSMEs can overcome challenges and drive economic development.

Read more here.

The Women’s Month is a timely reminder of how mentorship and networking can empower women and unlock their economic potential. When done right, mentorship becomes a transformative tool for breaking barriers and achieving lasting success.

Read more here.

Great Place to Work® Philippines has named the Best Workplaces for 2025, and we proudly congratulate our member companies recognized in the Large Enterprise Category: Accenture in the Philippines Capital One Philippines TP Philippines Carelon Global Solutions Philippines Concentrix Philippines PwC Acceleration Center Manila Foundever Philippines Let’s continue fostering respectful, inclusive, and DEI-driven workplace cultures. See the full list here.

Prosple Philippines has released its Top 100 Fresh Graduate Employers for 2025, and we're proud to see three PBCWE member companies in the Top 10:

SGV & Co. has appointed Rossana Fajardo as Country Managing Partner, reinforcing its commitment to transformational growth and workplace inclusion as a proud PBCWE member.

PBCWE congratulates Ms. Fajardo, a distinguished leader who continues to inspire and empower across industries. Read more here.

#1 Emerson Manila, #3 ING Hubs Philippines, and #8 Home Credit Philippines.

Let’s keep building inclusive, empowering workplaces.

See the full list here.

The article proudly highlights Patricia Poco-Palacios, President and CEO of Global Dominion Financing, Inc., whose leadership reflects the compassion, resilience, and courage of motherhood.

Her purposeful leadership continues to inspire as she drives impact within her company and beyond. Read more here.

Evident celebrates the appointment of Dove Subingsubing and Diane Hidalgo as Managing Partners, along with Cecile Dominguez-Yujuico’s promotion from CEO to President—marking a powerful milestone for women leadership.

PBCWE proudly recognizes these inspiring leaders for their commitment to inclusive, purpose-driven growth and building a company that listens, empowers, and evolves.

Read more here.

Last February 25, 2025, PBCWE Executive Director Julia Abad spoke on DWIZ 882’s Work Related program about the vital role of women in leadership and the challenges of advancing Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion (DEI).

Her insights highlighted the importance of business involvement in championing WGE, WEE, and DEI, aligning with the celebration of International Women’s Day. Her appearance reinforces the need to amplify women’s voices and leadership across all industries. Watch the full interview here.

On March 20, 2025, PBCWE Executive Director Julia Abad was featured as Kaserbisyo of the Day on Nagseserbisyo Niña Corpuz via Teleradyo Serbisyo in celebration of Women’s Month.

She shared insights on PBCWE’s mission and the ongoing challenges women face in the workplace, including the “double burden” of professional and domestic responsibilities.

Abad emphasized that empowering women benefits not just individuals but entire organizations by fostering diverse, creative, and inclusive work environments. Watch the full interview here.

To celebrate International Women’s Month, PBCWE curated a special playlist to empower women and individuals—wherever they are, whatever they’re doing.

Featuring staff-picked songs that inspire and uplift, this playlist is all about positive energy, motivation, and good vibes. Stream it here and feel the power of music!

PBCWE successfully championed the inclusion of additional gender indicators in the Sustainability Reporting (SuRe) Form, helping advance women’s representation and workplace policies. In 2025, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) will begin gradually enforcing new sustainability reporting guidelines for publicly listed companies.

To support a smooth transition, the SEC will implement a phased rollout and launch a customized web-based application— developed in partnership with Komunidad Global Services & Operations Philippines, Inc.—to enhance monitoring and compliance. With consistently high reporting rates, this digital tool will help ensure sustainability efforts, including gender equality, are effectively tracked and supported.

Read the guidelines here.

The 19th edition of the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report is now available, with the Philippines maintaining its global rank at 16th, making it one of Asia’s leaders in gender parity. The country has closed 79.1% of its overall gender gap, showing strength in education and health, but still facing challenges in economic participation and political empowerment.

Aligned with PBCWE’s mission to advance DEI and address gender disparities, this report reinforces the need for strategic action.

Through tools like GEARS (Gender Equality Assessment, Results, and Strategies), we continue to support businesses in closing gaps in leadership, pay equity, and workplace culture— driving inclusive practices and systemic change.

The Sustainable Development Report 2025, released on June 24, marks the 10th edition of the global SDG Index, which evaluates all UN Member States on their progress toward the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This year’s report introduces the SDGi Index, tracking progress through 17 headline indicators since 2015, and proposes urgent reforms to the Global Financial Architecture (GFA) to mobilize financing for SDG achievement.

The Philippines ranks 103rd out of 193 countries, having closed 79.1% of its overall gender gap.

While the country performs well in education and health, it continues to face challenges in economic participation and political empowerment—key areas under SDG 5: Gender Equality.

Read the report here.

Read the report here.

Creating a Culture of Belonging: P&A Grant Thornton’s Commitment to Workplace Inclusion At P&A Grant Thornton, inclusion is not merely a concept, it is a foundational principle that informs and shapes the culture of the Firm. Over the past year, the Firm has undertaken deliberate and impactful initiatives to cultivate an environment where every individual is acknowledged, respected, and empowered. Through the renewal of strategic partnerships and the implementation of inclusive practices, the Firm’s commitment to advancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) continues to progress with clarity and purpose.

A key milestone in this journey was the renewal of the Firm’s strategic partnership with the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE). This collaboration reinforces the Firm’s dedication to promoting gender equality in the workplace and serves as a guiding framework for inclusive leadership and equitable opportunities.

To further strengthen its DEIB strategy, the Firm completed the Gender Equality Assessment Results and Strategies (GEARS). This comprehensive assessment enabled the Firm to evaluate its existing policies, programs, and engagements through the lens of gender equality.

The results provided valuable insights in advancing Workplace Gender Equality (WGE).

In celebration of International Women’s Month, the Firm hosted Women’s Health Matters: Understanding Breast and Cervical Cancer, an educational seminar aimed at raising awareness and providing essential information on two of the most critical health concerns affecting women. The session offered employees valuable insights and support, reinforcing the importance of proactive health management. To further promote overall well-being and foster a culture of care, the Firm also organized wellness activities every Friday throughout the month, including complimentary 15-minute massages and interactive games, allowing employees to unwind and recharge in a supportive environment.

The Firm’s commitment to inclusion was further demonstrated during Pride Month. By signing a Pledge of Support to the Philippine Financial & Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP), the Firm formalized a strategic partnership rooted in advocacy, empowerment, and shared values. This initiative was followed by a hybrid seminar and panel discussion entitled Beyond The Rainbow: Why Allyship Matters. The event explored the critical role of authentic allyship in fostering inclusive workplaces, highlighting its impact on psychological safety, team performance, and talent retention. The discussion also addressed common challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ professionals, including microaggressions and barriers to advancement, supported by local data and lived experiences.

Beyond events and partnerships, the Firm has implemented tangible enhancements to ensure inclusivity is embedded in everyday experiences.

These include the introduction of gender-neutral bathrooms, the provision of inclusive food selections during events to accommodate diverse dietary and cultural preferences, and the expansion of HMO coverage to include common-law and LGBTQ+ partners, recognizing and supporting diverse family structures.

Through these collective efforts, the Firm reaffirms its belief that true progress stems from intentional action and inclusive leadership. As the landscape of work continues to evolve, the Firm remains resolute in its pursuit of a workplace where diversity is celebrated, equity is upheld, inclusion is practiced, and belonging is felt, driving not only organizational excellence but meaningful change in society.

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