DILG pushes stronger role for women leaders

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is pushing for greater women’s participation in local governance, citing 4,377 elected women officials nationwide for the 2025–2028 term, compared with 13,420 men.

Women hold elective posts ranging from provincial governor to Sangguniang Bayan member, the department said, emphasizing their role in shaping policies, protecting communities and promoting inclusive development.

At the 4th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Women Leaders’ Summit in Mandaluyong City earlier this month, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. described women’s leadership as “a core driver of our security, resilience, and prosperity.”

Marcos called on women in government, civil society, business and technology to continue contributing to regional progress.

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, Philippine Commission on Women Chairperson Ermelita Valdeavilla and ASEAN Political-Security Community Deputy Secretary-General Dato’ Astanah Abdul Aziz were among those who attended the summit.

To address women’s underrepresentation in local leadership, the DILG, through the Local Government Academy, is working with the Philippine Commission on Women to help local government units prepare and use Gender and Development plans and budgets.

The department also monitors the operation of Violence Against Women desks in more than 40,249 barangays to provide survivors with access to assistance and protection.

It said it is also strengthening emergency response services for women seeking help. Since its launch last year, the Unified 911 system has received 3,564 calls related to violence against women and children, the DILG said.

Within the department, 215 women occupy senior positions across its central and 17 regional offices.