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In celebration of International Women’s Month 2025, UNIDO Philippines, in partnership with Artisanal Gold Council Philippines, BAN Toxics, and Clean Air Asia, hosted “Unite for All Women: A Just, Green, and Inclusive Economy!” – a forum that spotlights women’s leadership in driving environmental sustainability and economic development.
The event at Novotel Manila Araneta City Hotel gathered around 200 representatives from government agencies, local government units, local and international development organisations, private sector groups, academia and grassroots communities.
It highlighted the vital role women play across various industries – from artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) to healthcare waste management, to electric vehicle and public transport industries – in advancing inclusive and sustainable industrialisation in the country.
“Women are powerful agents of change. By championing gender inclusion in environmental sustainability and industrial development, we unlock women’s potential as innovators and decision-makers – driving solutions that accelerate climate action, strengthen community resilience, and create a greener, more equitable future for all,” said Teddy Monroy, UNIDO Philippines Country Representative
The forum featured three UNIDO implemented projects funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF): the planetGOLD Philippines Project on mercury-free artisanal small-scale gold mining, the Philippine Healthcare and Mercury Wastes Management Project (HCW Project), and the Accelerating the adoption and scale-up of electric mobility for low-carbon city development in the Philippines (e-mobility ASAP Project) promoting the development of electrification of our transport sector.
Through panel discussions, and parallel sessions, women leaders from these sectors shared their experiences, challenges and achievements, and visions for a more inclusive future.
“Women’s leadership in the ASGM sector goes beyond breaking stereotypes – they are at the forefront of promoting mercury-free mining practices, protecting natural resources, and uplifting mining communities.
“Their participation ensures that small-scale mining becomes formalised, safer, more responsible, and community-centered,” said Abigail Ocate, National Project Manager for the planetGOLD Philippines Project of Artisanal Gold Council Philippines.
The event’s parallel sessions focused on women’s contributions in key sectors: artisanal small-scale gold mining, healthcare waste management, and automotive and public transport sectors. BAN Toxics facilitated discussions on the impact of healthcare waste on women and their role in driving solutions, while Clean Air Asia engaged participants on gender dynamics and challenges in the transport sector.
“Women make up 75% of the health profession and as a result, improper healthcare waste management can significantly impact women’s health. Women’s involvement in addressing healthcare waste management is critical in building more resilient and healthier communities. Their leadership drives solutions that safeguard both the environment and public health,” shared Jam Lorenzo, Deputy Executive Director of BAN Toxics and HCW Project Manager.
Ahn Meg Adonis, Sustainable Transport Lead of Clean Air Asia, emphasised the importance of inclusivity in e-mobility, stating, “As we work to jumpstart the local electric vehicle manufacturing industry and advocate for public transport electrification, integrating gender perspectives and empowering women in critical industries ensures that the benefits of e-mobility are accessible and equitable for all.”
During the closing ceremonies, Artisanal Gold Council Philippines together with women miners from project sites, Paracale, Camarines Norte and Sagada, Mt. Province, launched an original song “Isulong ang Pagkilos (Ginto ng Bayan)” – a call to support and accelerate action for women to achieve holistic change in the industries. The song highlights women’s vital contributions and the need to advance gender equality in small-scale mining and other sectors.
By amplifying women’s voices and leadership, “Unite for All Women” reinforces the essential role of women in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The forum served as a platform for collective action – encouraging partnerships and concrete solutions to break down gender barriers and promote women’s equal participation in environmental action and economic development and ensure no one is left behind.
