For Senator Pia S. Cayetano, empowering Filipinas has always been more than just an advocacy—it’s a lifelong mission shaped by her personal experiences as a working mother, athlete, lawyer, and legislator.
“Women play a dual role in our society—balancing responsibilities at home while actively contributing to our economy and nation-building. To truly support women, we need policies that protect their health, uphold their rights, promote economic opportunities, and secure the welfare of their children,” Senator Pia emphasized.
As former Chair of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, Senator Pia championed landmark laws that have strengthened the rights and welfare of Filipino women, including:
- 105-Day Expanded Maternity Leave Law – granting working mothers ample time to care for their newborns while ensuring economic security.
- Responsible Parenthood & Reproductive Health Act – ensuring women have access to reproductive health services and family planning options.
- Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act – institutionalizing breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and public spaces.
- The Magna Carta of Women – upholding women’s rights and promoting gender equality across all sectors of society.
- National Consciousness Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women & Children Act – raising national awareness to end gender-based violence.
- Children’s Emergency Relief and Protection Act – ensuring the welfare of children during disasters, recognizing that protecting children also protects mothers.
- Mandatory Infants and Children Health Immunization Act – guaranteeing access to essential vaccinations for all Filipino children.
But Senator Pia’s work goes beyond the Senate floor. Through her Pinay In Action (PIA) programs, she empowers women and youth at the community level by promoting health, fitness, education, and economic independence. Her Gabriel’s Symphony Foundation, founded in memory of her son Gabriel, also continues to support differently abled children and their families.
Looking ahead, Senator Pia stresses the importance of breaking barriers for women entrepreneurs, especially in creative industries like fashion and crafts where Filipinas shine. This includes:
- Expanding access to funding and financial literacy programs for women-led businesses
- Investing in training and mentorship programs tailored for women entrepreneurs
- Ensuring fair market access both locally and internationally
- Promoting work-life balance policies, including flexible work arrangements and childcare support
“When we invest in women—whether they are mothers, entrepreneurs, professionals, or students—we uplift entire families and communities. Women’s success drives the success of our nation,” Senator Pia said.
She also calls for gender partnership—encouraging families, schools, and workplaces to raise gender-sensitive boys who will grow up to be men who respect and champion women’s rights.
“Empowering women is a responsibility we must all share because a future where Filipinas thrive is a future where our whole nation prospers,” she concluded.
As the country celebrates Women’s Month, and with the 2025 elections approaching, Senator Pia Cayetano urges Filipinos to stand with her in building a future where every Filipina can thrive, dream, and lead.#
