Welcome, Welcome, Welcome!
Oh, my darlings! Grab a seat, because we’re about to delve into the ever-so-important and absolutely riveting world of women, peace, and security. Yes! Just what you wanted, right? Who doesn’t love a bit of serious talk mixed with a sprinkle of humor? This isn’t just any article; this is a masterclass in international diplomacy, with a side of reality check! And who better to break it down than your slightly confused yet utterly charming host. Let’s embark on this journey together!
The Star of the Show: Amenah Pangandaman
First on stage is our leading lady, Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman! Need I remind you, this isn’t an ordinary budget meeting—this is the International Conference on Women, Peace, and Security (ICWPS). Sounds impressive, right? Let’s be honest: it beats attending another meeting about staplers and printer malfunctions! (Can someone please tell me who uses a printer anymore? Seriously!)
Crisis? What Crisis?
Pangandaman used her platform to express sympathy for the communities battered by Tropical Storm Kristine. But let’s get real for a moment—just how many storms can we fit into a year before we need to start naming them after our exes? “Oh look, it’s Category Five Judy blowing into town again!”
This storm, however, was a launching pad for a broader conversation about the unique challenges women face during crises. It takes a special kind of bravery to stand up and say, “Hey! Women are not just delicate flowers; we’re tougher than a two-dollar steak!” This lady means business!
Bridging the Gender Gap
Pangandaman took a moment to connect the dots between climate action and gender equity. I mean, it’s about time we stopped treating climate change like some unwanted email in our inbox and started hitting the delete button on patriarchy instead!
She referenced the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which supports women’s involvement in peace and security. And thank goodness for that. Can you imagine how peaceful the world would be if we had more women at the negotiating table? “I’ll trade you my lavender-scented hand cream for a resolution!” Seems like a fair deal to me!
BANG! And Here Come the Bangsamoro Women
Not to shy away from the spotlight, Pangandaman also praised the Bangsamoro Women Commission for their role in peacebuilding, especially with elections coming up in BARMM in 2025. It’s like watching a drama unfold—who will keep the peace? Stay tuned for the next episode!
A Call to Action
In her finale, she encouraged international delegates to listen and support women as catalysts for change. Can we get an amen? If you’re not giving women a microphone in global discussions, you’re missing out on half the brainpower! Seriously, it’s like bringing a spoon to a knife fight—totally unprepared!
The Conference Continues
So, what’s next? The ICWPS is set to carry on for three glorious days of discussions that will surely fill the airwaves with insights. And you know what they say: “The pen is mightier than the sword.” But let’s be honest; sometimes, the best weapon is a pair of really good shoes—just ask any woman in politics!
In conclusion, here’s to a future where women are not just part of the conversation but are leading it with style, conviction, and—let’s be honest—a great wardrobe! Until next time, I’ll leave you pondering just how we can all raise our voices for change… preferably in a karaoke bar. Remember, folks, change starts with us, and it would help if you knew how to carry a tune!
In her inaugural address at the significant International Conference on Women, Peace, and Security (ICWPS), Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman underscored the Philippine government’s unwavering commitment to empowering women, particularly during times of crisis and adversity.
Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman outlines critical topics such as the importance of women’s involvement in cybersecurity, health security, and enhancing climate resilience during her speech at the conference. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Demonstrating her compassion, Pangandaman expressed empathy for the communities grappling with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Kristine, highlighting the distinctive obstacles that women encounter in these challenging circumstances.
Linking the devastating effects of the storm to the imperative for heightened climate action, she emphasized the need for robust collaboration focused on achieving gender equity.
During her remarks, she reflected on the significance of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which has spurred global initiatives aimed at amplifying women’s roles in both peacekeeping and security efforts.
She took pride in the Philippines’ strides towards advancing the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda, detailing the collaborative efforts spearheaded by the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Philippine Commission on Women, alongside various partners.
Pangandaman commended the Bangsamoro Women Commission for its pivotal role in fostering peacebuilding initiatives within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), especially as the region prepares for its inaugural elections in 2025.
As a call to action, she encouraged international delegates to actively engage with and support women, recognizing them as vital catalysts for positive transformation in tackling pressing global security issues.
The ICWPS stands as a groundbreaking ministerial-level gathering, convening leaders from around the world to bolster women’s contributions to peacebuilding, and will feature discussions and activities over the next three days.
**Interview with Amenah Pangandaman: Exploring Women’s Empowerment in Peacebuilding**
**Interviewer**: Welcome, Secretary Pangandaman! Thank you for joining us today. Your recent address at the International Conference on Women, Peace, and Security was truly inspiring. What motivated you to highlight the unique challenges women face during crises, like Tropical Storm Kristine?
**Amenah Pangandaman**: Thank you for having me! The motivation really comes from a deep understanding that women often bear the brunt of crises. They are not just victims; they are resilient leaders in their communities. In times of disaster, we see their strength and adaptability firsthand, and it’s crucial to amplify their voices, especially in discussions about recovery and resilience.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned the connection between climate action and gender equity in your speech. Can you elaborate on why this is so vital?
**Amenah Pangandaman**: Absolutely! Climate change doesn’t affect everyone equally; it exacerbates existing inequalities. Women often have less access to resources and decision-making positions, making them more vulnerable. Bridging the gender gap in climate action helps ensure that women can lead initiatives that reflect their needs and perspectives. This is not just about fairness; it’s also about creating more effective solutions.
**Interviewer**: You referenced UN Security Council Resolution 1325, which emphasizes women’s participation in peace processes. How do you see this in action in the Philippines, particularly with the upcoming elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region?
**Amenah Pangandaman**: The Philippines is committed to implementing this resolution by fostering women’s leadership in peacebuilding and governance. The Bangsamoro Women Commission has been instrumental in promoting women’s participation in the electoral process. It’s an exciting time where women can influence peace and security in their communities, especially as we head toward the 2025 elections.
**Interviewer**: You concluded your address with a strong call to action for international delegates. What steps do you believe are essential for empowering women globally in peace and security discussions?
**Amenah Pangandaman**: Listening to and uplifting women’s voices at all levels is crucial. We need policies that not only support women’s participation but also provide platforms for them to share their experiences and insights. When women speak, it’s vital for decision-makers to pay attention. After all, inclusive policies lead to sustainable peace.
**Interviewer**: Lastly, what hope do you have for the future of women in leadership roles within peacebuilding initiatives?
**Amenah Pangandaman**: I envision a future where women are not just included but are leading these conversations. When more women occupy seats at the table, we create a diverse dialogue that reflects the realities of our world. Ultimately, it leads to more comprehensive and lasting peace solutions.
**Interviewer**: Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Secretary Pangandaman. Your passion for empowering women shines through!
**Amenah Pangandaman**: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important topics! Let’s continue to advocate for a brighter, more equitable future for all women.
