Standing in solidarity with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and his relentless pursuit of sustainable and inclusive peace, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) welcomes and supports the issuance of the Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 83 by the Office of the President, mandating the adoption and implementation of the National Action Plan for Unity, Peace, and Development (NAP-UPD) 2025-2028.
Conflict and violence affect entire communities—but women and girls often bear the heaviest burden, facing disproportionate risks due to deeply rooted gender inequality and intersecting forms of discrimination. In this light, the PCW sees the NAP-UPD as a significant step forward in addressing these challenges through inclusive, participatory, and gender-responsive peacebuilding.
Additionally, the Commission hopes that this Plan will not only advance peace and development but also integrate gender perspectives across all stages of implementation. Women’s participation is essential in sustaining peace—through leadership, community organizing, and contributions to social cohesion. The plan offers a timely opportunity to institutionalize the role of women and other marginalized sectors in shaping a more equitable and conflict-resilient future.
“Women may often be the first to suffer in times of conflict, but they are also vital agents of peace and development. When women are included at the decision-making table, their voices are heard, and their perspectives shape solutions,” said Ermelita V. Valdeavilla, Chairperson of the Philippine Commission on Women. “The National Action Plan for Unity, Peace, and Development presents a crucial opportunity to ensure that women’s leadership and experiences are meaningfully reflected in peacebuilding across the country. We at PCW are committed to working with all stakeholders to advance gender-responsive approaches that uphold human rights, inclusivity, and sustainable peace.”
As the primary policymaking and coordinating body on gender equality and women’s empowerment, the PCW will continue to work closely with government agencies, civil society, and development partners to ensure that the NAP-UPD is implemented in a way that is inclusive, gender-responsive, and anchored in human rights.
Aligned with AmBisyon Natin 2040, the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028, and the country’s commitments to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), the NAP-UPD reinforces our shared vision for a Bagong Pilipinas where unity, peace, and progress benefit all—especially women and girls.
The Philippine Commission on Women reaffirms its commitment to building a nation that values equality, upholds dignity, and ensures lasting peace for every Filipino.
