President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday encouraged Filipinos to join advocacies and activities that empower women.

Duterte made this call in a pre-recorded speech aired during an online forum organized by the Philippine Commission on Women to celebrate National Women’s Month.

He said that efforts are being done to ensure that women have equal acces to education, economic opportunities, healthcare and social services, and growth opportunities, but acknowledged that government’s work is “far from over.”

“I urge our people to participate in advocacies and activities that promote women empowerment,” he said.

He also recognized women’s important contribution to unifying the Filipino people.

“The government recognizes the role of women in nation-building and upholding the fundamental equality before the law of both genders,” he added.

He, meanwhile, urged the public to join hands to ensure that the needs and rights of women are protected.

“Let us all work hand-in-hand to address the needs of women and honor their immense contribution to society. Mabuhay ang ating kababaihan,” he said.

In March last year, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo touted the various efforts initiated by the Duterte administration for women empowerment in the country.

He said the Duterte government has pushed for measures not only to promote the welfare of women but also to “fill the gaps” in upholding gender equality.

“The Duterte administration has made significant strides to empower our women. Some of these are giving them more financial, health and medical benefits or assistance, better work opportunities and improved working conditions,” he said.

On Jan. 9, 2017, Duterte signed Executive Order 12, which seeks to attain and sustain “zero unmet need for modern family planning” through the implementation of the Republic Act 10354 also known as the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act.

RA 10398 declares November 25 of every year as National Consciousness Day For The Elimination Of Violence Against Women And Children.

Meanwhile, Proclamation 1172, series of 2006, declares November 25 to December 12 as the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women.

International Women’s Day is celebrated every March 8 of each year. It was first officially commemorated by the United Nations in 1977. (PNA)