PBCWE Lead (January to June 2026)

6TH EDITION

PBCWE LEAD JANUARY TO JUNE 2026

A bi-annual newsletter highlighting the coalition's key milestones, partnerships, and initiatives in advancing gender equality in the workplace.

Safer by Design: Women, Work, and the Age of AI

www.pbcwe.com.ph

Beyond Commitments: DEI Becomes Business Strategy

MESSAGE OF SUPPORT We are pleased to present the sixth issue of PBCWE Lead. Through this newsletter, we hope you will gain a deeper understanding of PBCWE, our partner organizations, and what we can achieve together for workplace gender equality. We also hope that these newsletters give you a greater sense of ownership in your partnership with us. Our progress toward gender-equal workplaces is a group effort—one we should all take pride in. Many of you are aware of the recent leadership transition at PBCWE. I would like to extend my gratitude to Julia Abad for the work we began together, and for how she has led PBCWE to where it stands today. We wish her the best as she embarks on a new path—one that remains aligned with our shared commitment for women's empowerment in the workplace. As part of this transition, we have appointed RJ Barrete as Acting Executive Director. With his extensive experience at PBCWE, there is no one better suited to take on this role. I have full confidence in RJ's ability to lead PBCWE, and I hope that confidence is one you have come to share through your own interactions with him. Change is a constant, and with it comes evolution. Those of you who have been with us from the beginning have witnessed how PBCWE has grown and transformed over the years. This leadership transition is one of many changes—and it marks a pivotal moment in our organization's history. As we chart our path forward and move toward becoming a social enterprise, we are strengthening our ability to deliver sustainable, scalable, and impact-driven solutions that empower women in business and in the workplace. This evolution comes with the election of the new Governing Council officers and committee members, whom you can read more about in this issue. Change can be intimidating and uncertain, but it is also the starting point for growth. As we reflect on the events and programs of the past months, let us take pride in what we have accomplished—and let it inspire us to find new ways to collaborate in championing gender equality in the workplace.

Ma. Aurora “Boots” D. Geotina-Garcia PhilWEN Founding Chairperson & President PBCWE Governing Council Chairperson 2

BUILDING THE NEXT CHAPTER OF PBCWE Stepping into the role of Acting Executive Director has given me the opportunity to reflect on what the next chapter of PBCWE should look like. Our organization has built a strong foundation by working alongside businesses to advance workplace gender equality, and that legacy is something we should continue to be proud of. My responsibility now is to build on that foundation and ensure that PBCWE continues to create value in a rapidly changing world. At the heart of our work is a commitment to advancing women's economic equality because we believe that when women have equal opportunities to participate, lead, and succeed, businesses become stronger, economies become more competitive, and communities become more resilient. We recognize that gender is never experienced in isolation. People's opportunities and challenges at work are shaped by factors such as age, disability, socioeconomic background, ethnicity, caregiving responsibilities, sexual orientation, and gender identity. This is why inclusion and intersectionality remain central to our approach. They allow us to better understand the barriers people face and develop solutions that create opportunities for everyone. For us, this is not an expansion of our mission but a strengthening of it, because advancing women's economic equality and building inclusive workplaces go hand in hand. This perspective will shape how PBCWE works with businesses in the years ahead. First, we will strengthen our role as a strategic and trusted partner, helping organizations translate their commitments into action through practical solutions, meaningful partnerships, and shared learning.

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Second, we will continue to build a more evidence-based, solutions-driven, and future-ready organization by investing in research, generating local knowledge, and creating tools that help businesses make informed decisions and measure progress. Third, we will expand our reach beyond Metro Manila to ensure that organizations across the Philippines have access to the knowledge, networks, and support they need to build more equitable and inclusive workplaces. As the world of work continues to evolve, PBCWE must continue learning, innovating, and responding to emerging issues that shape the future of business. One initiative that reflects this vision is PBCWE Lead. More than a publication, it is a platform for capturing and sharing the stories, lessons, and achievements of organizations advancing workplace gender equality and inclusion. By documenting these journeys, we create a valuable source of knowledge for the broader business community, celebrate progress, and encourage peer learning. As we move forward, my aspiration is for PBCWE to remain the country's leading voice on women's economic equality while becoming the partner businesses trust for evidence-based solutions and thought leadership on inclusion. We will continue listening, learning, and working alongside our members and partners because lasting change is built through collaboration and shared purpose. Together, we can create workplaces that are more equitable, more inclusive, and better prepared for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

Reuben James Barrete PBCWE Acting Executive Director

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OPINION MATTERS

isn't enough—real allyship means listening to women, challenging stereotypes, mentoring, and holding oneself accountable through measurable goals The piece closes on a call to shared responsibility: gender equality is a strategic advantage, not a burden for women alone, and when men step forward as allies, they help build the inclusive, resilient workplaces the Philippines needs for a stronger, fairer future. Read more here.

Male Allyship for Inclusive Workplaces By: Ma. Aurora “Boots” Geotina-Garcia In this MAP Insights column for BusinessWorld, PBCWE Governing Council Chairperson Boots Geotina-Garcia makes the case that gender equality is not a "women's issue" to carry alone, but a human, business, and leadership issue that men must actively champion. Drawing from an Executive Session she led with the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), she argues that true allyship isn't about men "helping women" out of benevolence—it's about leaders ensuring organizations tap the full range of human talent and creativity. map Geotina-Garcia points to ECOP's own progress as proof of what's possible: women's representation on its Board of Governors and Corporate Officers has grown from just two to six out of 22 members, while women make up 70% of its Secretariat. But representation alone

PCW Honors Leaders in GAD Budget Implementation By: Imelda Nicolas The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) held its first-ever tribute and press conference recognizing the topperforming government agencies in implementing the 2024 Gender and Development (GAD) budget, an event led by PCW Chair Ermelita Valdeavilla. This year's recognition highlighted the achievements of 123 government agencies that excelled among 324 entities, including national agencies, GOCCs, and state universities and colleges, for translating 6

their GAD allocations into meaningful programs and reforms. Valdeavilla also traced the budget's roots to the 1995 General Appropriations Act, which first introduced a requirement for agencies to allocate resources for gender-responsive programs—a mandate that has since grown into one of the world's most comprehensive GAD budgeting systems. Beyond the awards, Valdeavilla underscored the strong accountability ecosystem behind the GAD budget, involving the Department of Budget and Management, COA, CHR, the Senate, and House of Representatives, reinforced by PCW's ISO-certified processes to safeguard public funds from misuse. She called on agencies to stay vigilant and push GAD initiatives from good intentions toward real impact, noting that PCW is shifting toward impact-level reporting in 2026 to highlight demonstrable improvements in the lives of women, girls, and communities. She closed with a call to uphold the GAD budget as a lasting legacy —one that protects public funds while empowering champions of a more equitable Philippines. Read more here.

By: Ma. Aurora “Boots” Geotina-Garcia Women and girls in ASEAN continue to face barriers in pursuing STEM education and careers despite strong academic performance in science and mathematics. Addressing these challenges is essential not only for gender equality but also for innovation, economic growth, and inclusive development. The article highlights the need for stronger policies, partnerships, and programs that expand women's access to STEM opportunities. It also underscores the role of organizations such as PhilWEN and PBCWE in advancing gender-inclusive STEM initiatives and calls on ASEAN, under Philippine leadership, to further strengthen its commitment to gender mainstreaming across the region. Read more here.

Redesigning Work so Women can Thrive By: Julia Abad

Gender Mainstreaming STEM in ASEAN

Women's labor force participation in the Philippines lags far behind men's—not from lack of ambition, but because workplaces are built for uninterrupted careers that push women out during caregiving years and rarely welcome them 7

back at the same level, writes outgoing PBCWE Executive Director Julia Abad. Her fix: bias-resistant hiring, flexible work without career penalties, better childcare support, and structured reentry programs —framing this not as a women's issue, but as key to the country's economic competitiveness. Read more here.

The Power of Frontline Governance By: Frances Yu Board director Frances Yu contrasts the polished boardroom, once dominated by older male executives fixated on spreadsheets, with the messy realities of the retail "front lines" she managed—where sales swung on weather, holidays, and even the lunar cycle. She argues true board diversity goes beyond gender and age to include "trench diversity": directors who stay grounded in daily operations, not just strategy from the top floor. Yu, who remains an active operator in retail and hospitality alongside her board seats, says this hands-on perspective lets her connect boardroom decisions to how they actually play out on the shop floor.

She suggests women, often natural "bridge-builders," are especially suited to this dual role—fluent in both shareholder strategy and frontline reality. Read more here.

NEW Strengthens Global Ties during Japan Visit By: Ella Santos-Sol The Network for Enterprising Women (NEW), a Manila-based group of women entrepreneurs, marked its 20th anniversary with a Tokyo visit from March 18-20, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of Japan-Philippine friendship. The delegation, led by president Ella SantosSol, paid a courtesy call at the Philippine Embassy, wore Filipiniana attire featuring handwoven Ilocos textiles, and held a commemorative lunch to discuss the Philippines' role in this year's Asean hosting. The trip also mixed business with cultural immersion: a gyoza restaurant tour, a networking session with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry 8

in Japan, visits to real estate properties and the Suntory Brewery to observe Japanese operational practices, and a closing stop at Shinjuku Gyoen during cherry blossom season. Santos-Sol called the visit proof of NEW's growing role in shaping globally connected Filipina entrepreneurs. Read more here.

workplace culture, not just policies. He points to tools like the GEARS framework, already used by 25 Philippine companies, as a way to surface these deeper patterns, insisting true progress means people no longer have to disappear parts of themselves to succeed. Read more here.

The Quiet Pressure behind LGBTQ+ Leadership

Redefining Resilience: Women in Times of Crisis

By: Reuben James Barrete

By: Ma. Aurora “Boots” Geotina-Garcia

Barrete, PBCWE Acting Executive Director, writes that many LGBTQ+ professionals carry a quiet, constant labor of self-editing as they rise into leadership—softening mannerisms, monitoring tone, and calculating how much of themselves is "acceptable" in the room. He notes that "executive presence" is still unconsciously tied to traditionally masculine traits like restraint and toughness, citing research on the persistent "gay glass ceiling" from LSE, Deloitte, and McKinsey.

Geotina-Garcia argues that Filipino women's celebrated "resilience" often masks a heavier burden—unpaid care work and self-sacrifice that deepen during crises and conflict, especially for those on the economic margins.

Barrete argues Pride Month campaigns and diversity statements aren't enough— real inclusion means examining everyday

She calls for redefining resilience as real ability to recover and adapt, not just endure—through financial empowerment, stronger support networks, and genderaware policies that give women a seat in decision-making. She calls for lasting economic and financial systems that share the burden, with women represented in decision-making rather than sidelined during crises. Read more here. 9

Group: Building Inclusive Workplaces Where Women Thrive The Filinvest Group remains committed to fostering inclusive workplaces and expanding opportunities for women across its businesses a diverse range of people-focused initiatives that promote leadership development, equal opportunities, and a culture of belonging. Across the Group, these efforts have helped create pathways for women to grow and lead, contributing to strong female representation at both the workforce and leadership levels.

Championing many of these initiatives is Isabelle Gotianun Yap, Director of Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC) and First Vice President, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer of East West Banking Corporation (EWB), whose leadership has helped advance Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) as a strategic priority across the organization.

A Milestone Partnership Among the latest milestones in this journey is Filinvest's partnership with the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE), where the Group became PBCWE's inaugural Visionary Member. This distinction made Filinvest the first conglomerate in the Philippines to adopt a group-wide approach to promoting DEI across its portfolio of businesses. Through the partnership, the Group aims to strengthen Workplace Gender Equality (WGE) and Women's Economic Empowerment (WEE) while fostering a more coordinated approach to inclusion across its organizations. "This occasion reminds us of the collective responsibility we all carry in creating opportunities for others. Real progress happens when we choose to take a second look and open doors that may have once been closed," Isabelle shared. "Through this collaboration, we honor the legacy of the women who came before us by ensuring that the path becomes easier and wider for those who will come after us."

Championing Inclusion

Representatives from Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC), EastWest Banking Corporation (EastWest), and Filinvest Business Services Corporation (FBSC) joined officials from PBCWE, the Philippine Women's Economic Network (PhilWEN), and Investing in Women in a virtual welcome event to reaffirm their shared commitment to advancing gender equality and inclusive leadership.

A recognized Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, Isabelle was among only two Filipinos selected to the organization's 2023 Young Global Leaders Class, a distinction that recognizes exceptional leaders making a positive impact in their industries and communities.

Isabelle Gotianun Yap leads the empowerment circle session for women employees and leaders across the Group.

Her commitment to empowering women is reflected in initiatives that strengthen leadership development, foster talent, and create greater opportunities for women to advance across the organization

Beyond these partnerships, Filinvest's commitment to inclusion is reflected in the composition of its workforce and leadership. In 2025, the Filinvest Group received two prestigious accolades at the HR Asia Awards Philippines Chapter, one of which is the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award. This recognitions underscore the Group's continuing commitment to creating an inclusive, empowering, and people-first workplace.

Empowering Women Across the Group

Isabelle Gotianun Yap receives Filinvest Group's DEI Award during the HR Asia Awards last 2025.

Across the Group's business units, women-focused initiatives continue to support this vision. EastWest has championed programs that promote inclusive leadership and professional development, while Filinvest Business Services Corporation (FBSC) has strengthened efforts that celebrate diversity and encourage employee participation through Women's Month and Pride Month activities. Isabelle Gotianun Yap was invited to speak at an EastWest led initiative, Empowered Women in Tech, in celebration of the 2026 Women's month.

Together with Group-wide DEI programs and partnerships with organizations such as the PBCWE, PhilWEN, and Investing in Women, these initiatives reinforce Filinvest's commitment to advancing workplace inclusion, expanding opportunities for women, and fostering environments where diverse talent can thrive and lead.

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A New Chapter for PBCWE: Passing the Torch on Gender Equality

Change is in the air at PBCWE. After nearly a decade at the helm since the coalition's founding, Executive Director Julia Abad is stepping down from her role, closing a chapter defined by her vision, dedication, and guidance in shaping PBCWE into a leading voice for Workplace Gender Equality (WGE), Women’s Economic Equality (WEE), and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Stepping into the role of Acting Executive Director is Reuben James "RJ" Barrete, who brings over a decade of leadership experience across the non-profit, public, and private sectors advancing gender equality, women's economic empowerment, and inclusive development. His credentials run deep—he was recognized internationally as a Young Leader at the European Commission's European Development Days in 2016, and he currently serves as President of the Sinagtala Center for Women and Children in Conflict. Within PBCWE itself, he has held senior leadership roles across program management, partnerships, and client engagement—giving him a running start in his new post.

The timing is notable: this handover arrives as PBCWE evolves its executive direction and embarks on becoming a social enterprise organization, a shift meant to strengthen the coalition's ability to deliver sustainable, scalable, and impact-driven solutions that empower women in business and the workplace. Read more here. 11

When the Office Goes Digital, So Does the Danger: PBCWE Sounds the Alarm on AI-Era Workplace Safety

In an AI-driven workplace, the threats women face no longer stop at the office door. It follows them online, into algorithms, and into the very systems meant to make work easier.

PBCWE's Nadya Lazaro laid out the full spectrum of TFGBV and pushed for real safeguards: anonymous reporting channels, digital ethics training, and regular audits of workplace tech.

That was the sobering message at PBCWE's International Women's Day event, "Safeguarding Women in the Age of AI: Digital Safety in the Workplace," held at the AIM Conference Center Manila. The takeaway was clear: digital harm is now workplace harm.

A panel of industry leaders—from P&A Grant Thornton, Infosys BPM, SGV & Co., and Asialink—shared what safer digital workplaces actually look like in practice: clear misconduct policies, AI governance frameworks built on human accountability, scenario-based training, and stronger grievance systems.

From cyberstalking and doxxing to imagebased abuse and algorithm-enabled discrimination, technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) is a growing workplace risk—one many Philippine organizations remain unprepared to face, despite strong national laws. Keynote speaker Rhea Luz Valbuena of Asia Pacific College warned that AI is no longer just automating tasks—it's shaping decisions on hiring, promotion, and opportunity. Without strong governance, she cautioned, "technology can amplify inequality."

The message was unanimous: AI should assist human judgment, not replace it— especially where bias can creep in. Closing the event, then-PBCWE Executive Director Julia Abad put it plainly: "Technology must not automate inequality, it must help close gaps." As workplaces go digital, PBCWE's call is simple—safety, dignity, and opportunity for women can't be left behind in the transition.

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From Principles to Practice: Why Gender Equality Is Now a Boardroom Priority gender equality and inclusion should be built into governance, sustainability, and business strategy—not treated as HR or CSR side projects. He pointed to sustainability reporting as a critical tool, citing the SEC's adoption of PFRS S1 and S2 to strengthen disclosures and align Philippine companies with global standards. Gender equality just got a seat at the risk management table. At PBCWE 2026 General Membership Meeting (GMM) – Gender Working Group (GWG), held June 30 at the AIM Conference Center Manila, business leaders, policymakers, and development partners gathered around a clear message: workplace gender equality and DEI are no longer "nice-to-haves"—they're governance issues. Themed "Pagtitibay: From Principles to Practice," the event pushed organizations to move past commitments and embed inclusion directly into leadership, risk management, and business strategy.

SEC Commissioner Rogelio V. Quevedo made the case plainly in his keynote presentation:

"Inclusion is not only a matter of fairness," Quevedo said. "It is a matter of governance. It is a matter of sustainability. And increasingly, it is a matter of business resilience and competitiveness." The June 30 forum backed that vision with action. An expert panel featuring Commissioner Quevedo, DepDev's Kevin Godoy, and Investing in Women's Dr. Ana Klincic Andrews explored how companies can turn WGE and DEI principles into real operational practice.

PBCWE also honored five member companies—Capital One Philippines, Cebu Air, Global Dominion Financing, PwC Acceleration Center Manila, and South Asialink Finance Corporation—for completing 13

the GEARS (Gender Equality Assessment, Results, and Strategies) framework, proving inclusion can be measured, not just promised. The gathering also marked a leadership milestone, with Reuben James Barrete announced as PBCWE's Acting Executive Director, ensuring continuity as the coalition pushes its mission forward. As PhilWEN's Ma. Aurora "Boots" GeotinaGarcia put it: organizations that weave gender equality into strategy and governance aren't just doing right— they're managing risk and building long-term value better than those who don't. The bottom line: inclusion isn't a checkbox anymore. It's a business imperative.

into their inboxes, their DMs, and their social media feeds. As technology evolves, so do the risks. Online harassment, image-based abuse, gendered misinformation, cyberstalking— technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) is reshaping how harm shows up in both digital and workplace spaces, often blurring the line between the two entirely. On May 14, PBCWE tackled this head-on with its webinar, "AI, Social Media, and the New Frontiers of Gender-Based Violence," bringing together 51 participants from member and partner organizations. The session equipped organizations with practical knowledge and tools to identify, prevent, and respond to emerging digital threats before they escalate. Because building safer workplaces today means looking beyond the four walls of the office. Together, we can:

The New Frontlines of Harassment: Why Workplaces Can't Ignore Digital Violence Anymore

Promote safer workplace cultures Strengthen policies against digital harm Empower employees to speak up and act The digital world isn't separate from the workplace—it's part of it. And protecting employees means protecting them everywhere.

Harassment doesn't stop at the office door anymore— it follows employees 14

Built to Grow: Inside PBCWE's New Organizational Blueprint Change is rarely announced with fanfare in the nonprofit world—it happens quietly, in organizational charts and job descriptions, long before it shows up in the results everyone sees. For PBCWE, that quiet shift is happening right now. The coalition is rolling out a refreshed organizational structure, one designed not to reinvent what PBCWE stands for, but to sharpen how it delivers on that mission. Four pillars now anchor the work: strategic direction, program excellence, operational strength, and external growth. Together, they form a coalition built to lead with clarity and scale with purpose.

The Compass: Office of the Executive Director

Acting

Every strong organization needs a steady hand at the helm. Under the Executive Director, two functions—Policy and Organizational Development—set the tone for everything else. This is where strategic leadership, institutional direction, and governance come together, keeping PBCWE anchored to its mission even as it grows. Where Vision Meets Reality: Program Management & Client Services Ideas are only as good as their execution. Led by the Director for Program

Management & Client Services, this arm oversees Programs, Training, and Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL). It's the engine that turns strategy into tangible outcomes—ensuring every initiative delivered to members and partners meets a high bar for quality and measurable impact.

The Backbone: Finance, Administration & Operations Behind every mission-driven organization is a well-run one. The Director for Finance, Administration & Operations manages Finance, Administration, and Operations—the unglamorous but essential work that keeps PBCWE sustainable, efficient, and resilient for the long haul.

Widening the Development, Communications

Circle: Business Marketing &

A coalition is only as strong as its network —and as influential as its voice. This function, led by the Director for Business

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Development, Marketing and Communications, help shape PBCWE’s strategic direction and strengthening its positioning, offerings, and voice not only to expand PBCWE’s reach, but to ensure the organization remains relevant, differentiated, and responsive to where the market and the movement are heading. Why It Matters This isn't restructuring for its own sake. It's an intentional bet that stronger leadership, sharper focus, and clearer accountability will translate into greater impact—for PBCWE's members, its partners, and the broader movement toward gender equality in Philippine workplaces.

Executive Committee: PhilWEN, Grant Thornton, SGV & Co.

P&A

Audit Committee: Magsaysay Careers (Chair), Evident Integrated Marketing & PR, P&A Grant Thornton Membership Committee: Integrated Marketing & PR Asialink Finance Corporation, Foods Corporation

Evident (Chair), Jollibee

With this new Council in place, PBCWE looks forward to advancing its strategic priorities in this new phase. Learn more about the Governing Council here.

The shape has changed. The mission hasn't. Learn more about the team here.

A New Chapter, A New Council: PBCWE Elects Its 2027–2029 Leadership On June 1, PBCWE held its virtual election for the Governing Council's 2027–2029 term, marking a renewed strategic direction for the coalition's push for gender equality in the workplace.

A Fresh Look, A Clearer Voice: PBCWE Launches Its New Website PBCWE has a new website designed to make it easier for people to know who we are, what we do, and why it matters. From our mission and programs to our partners and impact, everything is now easier to find and explore in one place. Visit us at www.pbcwe.com.ph.

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ON THE SCENE

Rewiring the Workplace: Inside PBCWE's Toolkit for Gender-Equal, Future-Ready Organizations How one webinar unpacked the practical mechanics of building inclusion—one tool at a time. What does it actually take to build a workplace that's not just diverse on paper, but structurally equipped for equality?

The Toolkit GEARS — the framework anchoring the approach to WGE. Pay Gap Calculator — turning pay equity into a data-driven diagnosis. Employee Perception Survey — a direct line into how inclusion feels on the ground. Diversity Data Collection Guide — a roadmap for gathering trackable data. Stories of Change — real narratives proving transformation isn't theoretical. Gender-Responsive ESG Integration — weaving equality into the ESG frameworks companies already report against. The Takeaway Equality doesn't happen by accident—it has to be designed, measured, and reinforced. That's the philosophy behind PBCWE's work: giving companies structured, evidence-based, practical pathways to embed gender equality into the DNA of their organizations. Interested in learning more about GEARS+ or bringing these tools into your organization? Reach out to us to explore how structured inclusion can become part of your workplace's foundation.

That was the question at the heart of PBCWE's webinar "Futureproofing Through GEARS+: Building Sustainable and Inclusive Workplaces," held February 24. The session was an introduction and refresher on key WGE and DEI tools built to move organizations from good intentions into measurable action.

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Why It Matters Prevention starts with knowledge. By equipping Sweef Capital and its portfolio companies with the tools to recognize and address GBVH, the training pushes the ripple effect further—from one firm's internal culture to the broader ecosystem of companies it invests in.

Safer by Design: Inside PBCWE's GBVH Training with Sweef Capital A safe workplace doesn't happen by chance—it's built, policy by policy, conversation by conversation. That was the driving idea behind a twoday training held on 8–9 January 2026, when PBCWE partnered with IBCWE (Indonesia Business Coalition for Women Empowerment) to work with Sweef Capital, a women-led, independent impact investment firm, and its portfolio companies. The Focus The sessions centered on Gender-Based Violence and Harassment (GBVH)— unpacking what it looks like in practice and, more importantly, how strong workplace policies can prevent it before it starts. For an investment firm built around empowering women, the training wasn't just a compliance exercise. It was a chance to model the standard Sweef Capital wants to see across its own portfolio: workplaces where safety is engineered in, not left to chance.

Bridging Borders: PhilWEN and PBCWE Welcome Canada's Trade Mission Diplomacy and gender inclusion found common ground when PhilWEN Founding Chairperson Ma. Aurora "Boots" GeotinaGarcia, and PBCWE former Executive Director Julia Abad welcomed a trade mission delegation from the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. Setting the Stage for 2026 The engagement comes at a pivotal moment—ahead of the Philippines' ASEAN Chairship in 2026—opening doors for deeper diplomatic and economic collaboration between the two nations. 19

"Access to opportunities, especially in rural areas, are still reserved for the entitled few," said Anna Chua-Norbert, DDB Group Chief Culture Officer. "The more we open our minds to provide real equity, the more we see how they can make real lasting impact."

A Seat on the Panel Julia took the conversation further as a panelist at the mission's symposium, making the case for cross-sector partnerships as a driver of genderinclusive workplaces. Her remarks spotlighted PBCWE's ongoing work with its member companies—turning a diplomatic exchange into a platform for showcasing what inclusive business looks like in practice.

Leadership Isn't a Title. It's Who You Let In. On January 29, top executives from PLDT, SGV & Co., Sanofi, Insular Life, ACCIONA, and Carelon gathered in Makati for PBCWE's Leaders for Change (LfC) Roundtable—united by one message: good intentions don't build inclusive workplaces. Action does.

The discussion centered on turning intent into everyday practice—through mentorship, education, and psychologically safe workplaces where diverse voices actually get heard. The consensus was clear: companies that treat inclusion as optional risk becoming irrelevant. "Leadership legacy is defined by who gets included, who gets heard, and who gets to lead next," said Ma. Aurora "Boots" Geotina-Garcia, PhilWEN Founding Chairperson.

Access to opportunities, especially in Anchored on three pillars—Leaders' Link, Stories' Link, and Mentors' Link—LfC is PBCWE's platform for turning executive commitment into lasting change, one mentorship at a time. Because the real test of leadership was never the boardroom. It's who gets to walk into the room next. Read more here.

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The result: reporting that mirrors the diversity of the market it serves, and strategies built for growth that lasts.

Gender Equality Is a Sustainability Metric—PBCWE Makes Sure It Counts PhilWEN and PBCWE—represented by Founding Chairperson & President Boots Geotina-Garcia—proudly serve as members of the Philippine Sustainability Reporting Committee (PSRC). In this role, both organizations collaborate with industry stakeholders and advocate for one clear goal: embedding essential gender indicators into the Sustainability Reporting Guidelines for Publicly Listed Companies. Because sustainability isn't complete without gender equity in the equation. Drawing on PBCWE's expertise in Workplace Gender Equality, Women's Economic Equality, and DEI, the coalition emphasizes that sustainability reporting must reflect both gender and ESG priorities. Institutionalizing gender-focused reporting doesn't just check a compliance box—it builds organizational credibility, strengthens resilience, and creates real competitive advantage.

Where Are the Women? Boots Geotina-Garcia Takes the ASEAN Stage At the 2nd Southeast Asian and 8th National Women's Summit held on March 2–3 in Quezon City, the theme cut straight to it: "ASEAN Leadership and Regional Cooperation: Where are the Women?"— fitting, given the Philippines' ASEAN Chairship this year. Among the speakers: Ma. Aurora "Boots" D. Geotina-Garcia, Founding Chairperson and President of PhilWEN, and Governing Council Chairperson of PBCWE.

Her presence carries weight—PhilWEN and PBCWE, launched in 2017 with Investing in Women, an initiative of the Australian Government, have spent years pushing gender equity from talking point to measurable practice in Philippine business. That's exactly the credibility this summit's question called for. 21

to something more useful: what ordinary users, workplaces, and communities can actually do to make online spaces safer and more respectful—not just react to harm, but help prevent it. It's a fitting extension of PBCWE's broader push for gender equity in the workplace: safety doesn't end at the office door, and neither does the work of building it. Watch the full interview here.

Not Just Offline: Why Digital Spaces Need Safer Ground Rules Too Gender-based violence doesn't stop at the screen—and on the June 18 episode of “Nagtatanong Lang” made the case for taking it just as seriously online. Host JR Santiago sat down with PBCWE Training Manager Nadya Tañola, PBCWE Programs, MEL & Client Engagement Amica Laine Francisco, and Carelon Global Solutions Philippines' Kyler Luna—Director of Clinical Operations and Executive Sponsor of the Women's Inspired Network (Philippines)—for a candid look at genderbased violence in digital spaces. The conversation moved past the headlines

Unstoppable: Women Leading the Way Forward On March 19, PBCWE stood shoulder to shoulder with changemakers at the 4th Women Lead Conference, hosted by the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines—a gathering built to honor the strength, leadership, and unstoppable impact of women across industries. At the heart of the event was a keynote that resonated deeply: PhilWEN Founding Chairperson and President, and PBCWE Governing Council Chairperson, Boots Geotina-Garcia, took the stage to reflect on her own leadership journey. With candor and conviction, she reminded the room of a truth PBCWE holds close—that inclusive leadership isn't built alone. It's built together. 22

Through honest conversations and real, lived experiences, the space became something more than a workshop—it became a circle of trust, where every voice mattered and every story was heard.

Her message was clear: when we amplify women's voices, we don't just open doors for individuals—we reshape entire industries.

This is what ALI's Inclusive Circles are all about: creating spaces where women can grow, lead, and lift each other up. Because empowerment isn't just about receiving— it's about giving, too. Watch the video recap here.

Moments like these fuel PBCWE's mission to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion at every level. Here's to more spaces where women lead, inspire, and rise—together.

Give to Gain: Where Women's Voices Take Center Stage In celebration of Women's Month, the AyalaLand, Inc. (ALI) Inclusive Circle for Women came alive with stories, solidarity, and shared strength—all anchored on this year's powerful theme: Give to Gain. The session, facilitated by PBCWE, brought women together to open up, listen, and learn from one another.

Beyond Compliance: Building Workplaces That Truly Include On April 20, PBCWE partnered with the Asialink Group of Companies—including Asialink Finance Corporation, Global Dominion Financing, Inc., and South Asialink Finance Corporation—to deliver a Disability Awareness Training that challenged 125 participants to think bigger about inclusion. The conversation went beyond checklists and compliance. It centered on real, concrete actions companies can take today to build a genuinely disabilityfriendly culture—one where employees 23

with disabilities aren't just accommodated, but truly supported, valued, and empowered to thrive.

Partnerships like this one with AmCham Philippines are at the heart of PBCWE's advocacy.

Because inclusion isn't a one-time initiative. It's a long-term commitment, built one workplace at a time. Proud to walk this journey with partners who show up ready to do the work.

When Chambers of Commerce lend their voice and platform to gender equality and DEI, the impact multiplies— reaching more industries, influencing more policies, and inspiring more leaders to act.

Breaking Barriers, Igniting Innovation: Stronger Together This Women's Month 2026, AmCham Philippines—through its Professional Women of AmCham (PWOA) Committee— joined forces with PBCWE and the Analytics & AI Association of the Philippines (AAP) to host the Women's Month Forum: Breaking Barriers, Igniting Innovation, held in Makati. The forum was more than a celebration—it was a reminder of what's possible when institutions come together in service of a shared vision: a more equitable, innovative future for women in every industry.

HER Space: Health, Empowerment, and Rights Take the Spotlight The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Philippines, in collaboration with PBCWE, brought Women's Month to life through the SEC Women's Month Fair: HER (Health, Empowerment, and Rights) Space—a celebration centered on female hygiene, reproductive health, and Women's Economic Empowerment (WEE). During the session on WEE, Organizational Development Adviser Jennifer Anne Mendoza drove home a powerful point: women's labor force participation isn't just a workplace issue—it's an economic one. 24

Advancing gender equality fuels economic growth, and when more women participate in the workforce, it helps break the intergenerational transfer of gender stereotypes for good. Health. Empowerment. Rights. Three pillars, one shared vision—a future where women thrive in every space they enter.

Investing with Intent: Gender Lens Investing Gets Practical SHEroes 2026: Honoring the Women Shaping an Industry The HIMAP SHEroes 2026 segment was a celebration in every sense—a moment to pause, honor, and uplift the women whose leadership continue to shape and strengthen the Philippine HIMS industry. Adding depth and inspiration to the occasion, PhilWEN Founding Chairperson and President, and PBCWE Governing Council Chairperson, Ma. Aurora "Boots" D. Geotina-Garcia, delivered the keynote address on March 27—bringing wisdom, warmth, and a powerful reminder of what women's leadership looks like when it's given the space to shine. SHEroes 2026 wasn't just a segment—it was a spotlight long overdue, celebrating the women who lead with impact, every single day.

A step forward for gender lens investing in the Philippines—and proof that intent means little without action. For Australian Development Investments (ADI), gender lens investing isn't just a philosophy—it's operational impact. Through targeted technical assistance and training, ADI equips fund managers and businesses with the systems and practices needed to turn gender intent into inclusive, measurable, and sustainable growth. That commitment came to life through an in-person gender lens investment cohort training held in the Philippines, hosted by ADI-investee ARQ SME BDC and led by its Managing Director, Abigail Tan. PBCWE facilitated the training, helping create a space where ADI's Philippinesbased portfolio companies and partners could explore gender lens investing in real, practical, workplace settings. Because gender equality isn't just good values—it's good business and it starts with the systems we build today. 25

Boards Through Change A Group-Wide First: Filinvest Sets the Standard for DEI Filinvest Development Corporation has made history as the first member of PBCWE to adopt a group-wide approach, joining as its inaugural Visionary Member. As one of the Philippines' leading conglomerates—spanning real estate, banking, hospitality, power, and infrastructure—Filinvest's move signals a deliberate commitment to embedding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion across every business unit it operates.

From June 3 to 6, 2026, PBCWE joined the Global Summit of Women (GSW) for the 2nd Women in Boards Forum held in Turkey, moderated by Irene Natividad, alongside co-panelists Muriel Pénicaud, Cansen Başaran-Symes, and Alejandra Martínez Sánchez. The discussion explored how governance can help companies navigate today's fastconverging risks—from cyber threats to talent pressures. The discussion underscored three key takeaways: boards need judgment, not just data; independent directors are vital for family-owned businesses; and term limits aren't just good governance—they open doors for greater diversity and stronger succession planning.

It's the first time a conglomerate, through its holding company, has committed at this level—setting a new benchmark for corporate leadership in the Philippines. Read more here.

Juana Trabaho: A Bold Push for Women in the Workforce Governance in Motion: Leading

The Department of Economy, Development and Planning (DepDev), with Investing in Women, launched Juana Trabaho—an initiative to boost female labor force participation nationwide. 26

PBCWE former Executive Director Julia Abad joined as a panelist, speaking on workplace gender bias, unpaid care work, and flexible work arrangements, and formally signed the initiative's statement of commitment on PBCWE's behalf. Closing the gender gap in labor force participation isn't just good policy—it's good for the economy.

Stewards of Impact: Women Building What Endures On March 24, PhilWEN Founding Chairperson and President, and PBCWE Governing Council Chairperson, Ma. Aurora "Boots" D. Geotina-Garcia, joined the panel "Stewards of Impact: Women Building What Endures" at the 2026 Women of Power Summit, organized by the Philippine Daily Inquirer. The session spotlighted a powerful truth: gender equality isn't separate from ESG— it's central to it. Women leaders are shaping impact that lasts, across industries and communities alike.

Leading Change: Women Shaping the Nation's Future PBCWE former Executive Director Julia Abad joined a distinguished panel for "How Women Leaders Influence and Effect Change in Our Country," hosted by Atty. Euney Mata-Perez and Debbie Namalata a fitting capstone to Women's Month. Organized by the Institute of Corporate Directors' Board Diversity Committee and the NextGen Organization of Women Corporate Directors (NOWCD), the forum brought together women leaders from diverse sectors to share paths shaped by resilience and purpose. Julia spoke to the power of policy, advocacy, and good governance in driving inclusive change—and the importance of strong role models and collective action in shaping what comes next for the nation. Because lasting change takes leaders who are willing to shape what comes next.

Because what endures is built by those who lead with purpose. 27

Turning Gender Data Into ESG Advantage: New E-Learning Course Now Open Investing in Women (IW) and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) have teamed up to launch a new course: Reporting on Gender Equality—From Principles to Practice. Workplace gender equality is no longer just a values statement, it's becoming a strategic lever for building sustainable, high-performing organizations. Companies that actively advance it often see the payoff in stronger employee satisfaction, better financial performance, and greater appeal to clients and investors. Progress on gender equality also directly strengthens how a company performs against ESG criteria, but only if that progress can be measured and reported well. That's where many organizations hit a wall. As ESG reporting obligations evolve, companies frequently lack the frameworks, tools, or hands-on experience to report effectively—especially on the "social" pillar, where metrics are often loosely defined and inconsistently applied across industries. This new course was built to close that gap. Designed for HR professionals, business leaders, and ESG practitioners, it combines real-world business case studies with interactive exercises. Good news for PBCWE members: businesses referred through PBCWE can access the course at a 50% discount—making it easier than ever to build in-house capability on ESG and gender reporting. Ready to get started? Explore the course on the GRI Academy website, and reach out to PBCWE for details on how to claim your member discount. 28

Publication Team: Carlo Abayon Editor-in-Chief Martha Falcon Contributor/Editor Claire Gaurana Contributor/Editor

PBCWE Lead is a publication of the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE). Content is credited to PBCWE's partners and stakeholders where applicable, with additional materials sourced from royalty-free platforms. © 2026 Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment. All rights reserved.

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