Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. acknowledged the significant contributions of high-achieving Filipino women as the country celebrates National Women’s Month.

In a press statement, Galvez said Filipino women’s excellence and perseverance have helped the government achieved long-lasting peace in the country.

“As we celebrate National Women’s Month, we are reminded of how our nation’s women have played an indispensable role in the Philippine peace process,” he said.

Galvez also hailed the women who exhibit the courage to break “barriers and stereotypes.”

He also lauded them for being actively involved in “all aspects of peace-building,” which include conflict prevention and resolution, negotiation and signing of agreements, and social healing and reconciliation.

Galvez also thanked the women who have continued to help build a ”just, kind and tolerant society,” as well as to promote the culture of “peace, mutual understanding, healing, reconciliation and unity“ in the country.

He stressed that women’s hard work, dedication, and leadership have helped “heal the wounds of the past, put an end to the decades-long armed conflict in the country, and create an environment where people can reap the benefits of a just and lasting peace.“

“There are indeed a lot of reasons for us to celebrate women’s month,” Galvez said. “As we celebrate all of these milestones, let us give recognition to our women peace workers and advocates.”

Galvez also took the time to express his ”heartfelt” honor and gratitude to all the women who have stood up against unfair labor practices; opposed all forms of inequality in society; battled sexual harassment and violence; fought for the right to vote; and served in public office.

“On behalf of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, we would like to call on all Filipinos to come together, work hand in hand, and help Make Peace Work for Women,” he said.

The National Women’s Month Celebration every March is part of the worldwide observance of the International Women’s Day on March 8.

The following issuances serve as legal bases for the annual activity:

• Proclamation No. 224 s. 1988 declaring the first week of March each year as Women’s Week and March 8 as Women’s Rights and International Peace Day;

• Proclamation No. 227 s. 1988 providing for the observance of the Month of March as Women’s Role in History Month; and

• Republic Act (RA) 6949 s. 1990 declaring March 8 of every year as National Women’s Day.

Galvez noted that 2020 also marks the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action (BPFA), which highlights women’s plight during situations of armed conflict.

“The BPFA recognizes the need to protect the rights and preserve the welfare of women, especially in times of armed hostilities, and empowering them to participate in the peace-building process,” he said.

Galvez said this year also marks the 20th anniversary of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which calls for the equal and active involvement of women in peace and security.

He added that the Philippines is also celebrating the 10th anniversary of its National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, which embodies the country’s commitment to allow women to be “at the forefront of the nation’s peace and security agenda.” (PNA)