Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson thanked the female employees of the Negros Occidental provincial government for their contribution to the fight against COVID-19 at rites to mark Women’s Day at the Capitol in Bacolod City Monday, March 8.
The Global Gender Gap Report 2020 of the World Economic Forum shows that the Philippines is No.1 in Asia and No.16 in the world in terms of closing the gender gap, the governor said.
At the Negros Occidental provincial government, the women, who outnumber the men in the workforce, took on the crucial role of manning the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lacson said.
The majority of the provincial health workers are women, Lacson pointed out.
As governor, he is happy to have more women in the provincial government, Lacson said.
“You braved the pandemic and remained consistent in providing the services needed by our constituents despite the threats,” he said.
“As women of the Capitol, bear in mind that you are an inspiration to many; you are educated, intelligent and capable of effecting positive change, both in the household and in the community,” he said.
Lacson said more than just acknowledging their worth, the provincial government has devised Gender and Development Priority Programs and provides scholarships for masteral and doctorate degrees to enhance the potential of every woman in its workforce.
“Filipino women are among the best workers and leaders in the world – disciplined, skilled and brilliant, making them an indispensable force in the workplace and whatever industry they are in,” he said.
The Capitol Women’s Day was organized by the Provincial GAD Focal Point System led by Action Officer, Marie June Castro.*