Good morning, Ma’am Louise Araneta Marcos. Good morning to Joey Concepcion. Esteemed partners, distinguished guests, and to all inspiring women around the globe, magandang umaga sa inyong lahat and Happy Women’s Month.
Today, when women rise, societies flourish and nations transform. As a former businesswoman turned public servant, I have seen firsthand the power of women, whether in boardrooms, bustling marketplaces, and the very heart of communities. And with this, the reality is clear. Empowered women bring real progress.
To all the women out there who has a dream and ambitions, I say you must go for it. You could be the next big success story. We at the Department of Trade and Industry are committed to ensuring that every Filipina entrepreneur, professional, and innovator has not just a seat at the table, but a commanding voice. Our programs are anchored in the powerful vision, “Babae sa lahat ng sektor, aangat ang bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas.”
Through our SheTradesPH, we are mentoring women-led enterprises to scale up and compete globally. Through negosyo centers, we have empowered
1.5 million entrepreneurs, 62% of them are women. Let me share the story of Gweneline Larua, a mother from MIMAROPA, who started a small peanut butter and turmeric drink business. With the DTI support, she turned that small dream into a thriving wellness brand.
As we honor Go Negosyo’s Inspiring Filipina Entrepreneurs 2025, let us recognize that each of us holds the power to elevate more women. Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., let us continue to build bridges with purpose and create a Bagong Pilipinas where no women is left behind.
Let us remember that this is not just a call to individual achievement, it is a call to collective empowerment. This is not just a promise, this is a commitment. Together, let us break barriers, build futures, and uplift every Filipino.
Mabuhay ang kababaihang Filipino, mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas. Thank you so much. ♦
Date of release: 15 March 2025
