Philippine Commission on Women (PCW)

As many Filipinos navigate life away from their homeland, the need for robust support systems becomes paramount. This is where the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) steps in, playing a crucial role in uplifting, providing community assistance, and protecting the rights of Filipino women, especially those working overseas. Established as a guiding force for gender equality and women’s empowerment, the PCW’s initiatives extend beyond the borders of the Philippines, reaching the lives of countless migrant workers.

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History and Foundation of the PCW

The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), originally established in 1975 as the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women, has evolved significantly over the years in its mission to enhance women’s rights and gender equality in the Philippines.

Initially focused on improving the socio-economic status of women, the PCW has been pivotal in advocating for key legislation, such as the Overseas Workers Welfare Act and the Family Code, and adopting international frameworks like the Beijing Declaration.
Renamed in 1992 and instrumental in the enactment of the Magna Carta of Women in 2009, the PCW now concentrates on implementing comprehensive gender equality policies and mainstreaming gender across government programs.
Its initiatives, including the National GAD Resource Pool and campaigns against violence and women’s political participation, underscore its enduring commitment to advancing the status of Filipino women, including those working abroad.

Logo of the Philippine Commission on Women

Mission and Vision of the PCW

Mission: Advocating for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment

Policymaking and Oversight

The PCW stands at the forefront as the primary policy-making body regarding women and gender equality concerns in the Philippines.
It actively advocates for gender-responsive policies across government agencies and ensures their effective implementation.

Gender Mainstreaming

A critical mission of the PCW is the promotion of gender perspectives integration into all development plans, programs, and projects.
This effort ensures that women’s needs and concerns are systematically addressed in every government initiative, ensuring equitable development.

Authority on Women’s Concerns

The PCW also serves as a central resource and knowledge hub for issues related to women.
Through research, data gathering, and information dissemination, the PCW raises awareness and advocates for women’s rights.

Lead Advocate for Gender Equality

At national, regional, and international levels, the PCW is a key advocate for gender equality.
Collaboration with civil society, government agencies, and international partners is central to its strategy to advance women’s rights and empowerment.

Vision: A Society of Equality and Empowerment

Achieving Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment

The PCW envisions a Philippines where women and girls can realize their full potential in a society free from discrimination and violence.
It emphasizes equal access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and political participation for women.

Holistic Development

The vision of the PCW extends to the overall well-being of women, including physical, mental, and social health.
It promotes an environment where women can flourish and contribute meaningfully to society.

Fostering an Inclusive Society

Recognizing the diverse experiences of women from different backgrounds and cultures, the PCW strives for inclusivity.
Its vision is to create a society where every woman, regardless of ethnicity, social class, or other factors, is valued and respected.

The mission and vision of the Philippine Commission on Women underscore its unwavering dedication to gender equality and women’s empowerment. Its comprehensive approach to policy advocacy, knowledge sharing, and collaborative efforts pave the way for a more equitable and just society, empowering women and girls across the Philippines.

PCW Core Functions and Responsibilities

The PCW stands as the nation’s vanguard in promoting gender equality and empowering women. Its multifaceted approach encompasses policymaking, advocacy, coordination, monitoring, and research. Let’s delve into these core functions and explore some of the PCW’s notable initiatives that are making a tangible difference in the lives of women across the Philippines.

Policymaking and Advocacy

Developing and Advocating Gender-Responsive Policies:
- The PCW is instrumental in drafting, reviewing, and promoting policies that foster gender equality and women’s empowerment across various sectors. This involves a close examination of laws, national plans, and executive orders to ensure they cater to the needs of women.
- A key focus is mainstreaming gender into development plans and budgets. By collaborating with other government agencies, the PCW ensures that gender considerations are integrated into planning and budgeting processes, leading to equitable resource allocation that benefits women and girls.
- The Commission is also at the forefront of promoting the Magna Carta of Women (MCW), a pivotal law guaranteeing women’s rights and safeguarding them from discrimination and violence.

Coordination and Monitoring

Leading the Inter-Agency Response to Gender Issues:
- As the secretariat for the Inter-Agency Council on Violence Against Women and their Children (IACVAWC), the PCW coordinates efforts to address gender-based violence, economic inequality, and other challenges that women face.
- Monitoring the implementation of gender-related policies and programs is another critical role. The PCW assesses the progress in achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment, pinpointing gaps and advocating for necessary reforms.
- The Commission also provides technical assistance and capacity building to government agencies, civil society organizations, and local communities, enhancing their ability to address gender issues effectively.

Research and Knowledge Management

Conducting Research and Disseminating Knowledge:
- Through its research and analysis of gender issues, the PCW generates crucial data and insights on the status of women and girls in the Philippines, guiding policy development and advocacy.
- The dissemination of these research findings to policymakers, researchers, and the public is vital in raising awareness and understanding of gender issues.
- Additionally, the PCW maintains a gender library and resource center, offering a wealth of information and resources on gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Examples of Initiatives and Programs Led by the PCW

VAWC Helpdesk:
- This initiative provides crucial assistance and referral services to survivors of violence against women and their children.

Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System:
- A training program for government personnel, focusing on integrating gender considerations into their work.

National GAD Resource Pool:
- A network of experts and advocates who offer technical assistance on various gender issues.

Through these diverse roles and programs, the Philippine Commission on Women not only champions the cause of gender equality but also provides practical, impactful solutions to the challenges faced by Filipino women. The PCW’s commitment to these core functions and responsibilities reflects the nation’s dedication to creating a more equitable and just society for all its citizens.

PCW Current Programs and Initiatives

The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) stands at the forefront of advocating and empowering Filipina women, undertaking a range of programs and initiatives to promote gender equality and women’s rights. Here’s a closer look at some of these pivotal programs:

Ongoing Programs and Initiatives:

GADtimpala: This innovative program applauds and rewards local government units (LGUs) for their exceptional integration of Gender and Development (GAD) principles into their policies and programs. GADtimpala sets a standard for excellence in gender mainstreaming, encouraging more LGUs to prioritize gender equality in their governance.
GAD Webinars: Recognizing the power of knowledge, PCW regularly hosts online seminars and workshops. These GAD Webinars are instrumental in building capacity among government officials, advocates, and the public, covering a wide range of GAD-related topics and fostering a deeper understanding of gender issues.
Gender and Development Local Learning Hub: This digital platform serves as a comprehensive resource center, offering information, best practices, and learning materials on GAD. It’s a valuable tool for those looking to enhance their knowledge and skills in gender mainstreaming and development.
GREAT Women Project 2: Focused on the economic empowerment of women micro-entrepreneurs, this initiative provides skills training, market access, and financial assistance. It empowers women to become more economically independent and successful in their entrepreneurial ventures.
National Gender and Development Resource Program: The PCW extends technical assistance and resources to government agencies, helping them integrate GAD into their planning, budgeting, and project implementation. This program ensures that gender considerations are woven into the fabric of governmental operations.
Tinig ng Kababaihan: Through this radio program, women are given a voice to share their stories, concerns, and aspirations. It’s a powerful platform for raising awareness about women’s issues and advocating for their rights.

Through these diverse programs and initiatives, the PCW is not just empowering Filipina women but also paving the way for a more gender-equal society. Each initiative, whether it’s aimed at economic empowerment, educational enrichment, or advocacy, contributes significantly to the upliftment of women in the Philippines, marking the PCW as a key player in the nation’s journey toward gender equality.

Video: Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) Video

This video serves as a vivid illustration of the Philippine Commission on Women’s (PCW) unwavering commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of Filipina women. Each frame resonates with the PCW’s mission to uplift women from all walks of life, including migrant workers and those facing challenges in diverse environments. Moreover, the video echoes the PCW’s dedication to addressing issues such as violence against women and children and promoting awareness through campaigns and educational initiatives.

Contact Information

Philippine Commission on Women
Address: 1145 J. P. Laurel Street Malacañan Palace Complex, San Miguel, Manila 1005
Telephone number: (+632) 8735-1654, 8735-4767 & 8736-7712
Email: records@pcw.gov.ph
Website: https://pcw.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PCWgovph