Senator Cynthia Villar says women take the lead in her 3,000 community-based livelihood projects nationwide which help augment family income.
These projects included waterlily handicraft-weaving enterprise, handmade paper factory, coconet-weaving enterprise, charcoal-making factory, organic fertilizer production, waste plastic recycling factories producing school chairs, bamboo processing, and agricultural programs in farm tourism facilities and farm schools.
Villar said she stands with the Young Women’s Christian Association of the Philippines (YWCA) in their advocacy for women empowerment, particularly for those in the marginalized sectors.
“The insight is clear: when we uplift women, we elevate families, strengthen societies, and nurture future leaders essential to nation-building,” Villar asserted.
Speaking during YMCA’s 75th anniversary, the senator said women empowerment today means more than just protecting them from violence and other forms of abuse.
It significantly includes providing them with opportunities to earn.
“Women are also vital contributors to economic growth. Empowered women augment their family’s income, put food on the table, and play significant roles in raising and educating their children,” she said.
“And these well-bred and educated children will then become the future assets of our nation,” she added.
She cited YWCA’s Vision-Mission is about enhancing the lives of women and girls, nurturing holistic leaders, promoting selfless Christian service, and building the future through strong partnerships,” she added.
According to Villar, this stands as a testament to the transformative efforts of the YWCA.
“As you celebrate your 75th anniversary, let us put a spotlight on the dedication, hard work, and the core values that YWCA has championed,” she emphasized.
