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Gender Equality
Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo is a passionate advocate for gender equality, exemplified by her significant contributions to the advancement of women's rights on both national and international platforms. As the co-chair of the Philippine delegation, she played a pivotal role in the campaign for women's leadership, culminating in the successful election of the Philippines to the chairmanship of the 68th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women. Her unwavering commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women has been a driving force in her advocacy, impacting not only the Philippines but also resonating on the global stage. Anna Mae's dedication to championing gender equality serves as an inspiration to individuals and communities seeking to create a more inclusive and equitable world for all.
Advocacy Highlights
Championing Women's Economic Empowerment
Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo emphasizes the critical need to invest in women to accelerate progress toward gender equality. With the theme “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” she highlights the United Nations' estimation that $360 billion per year is required to address poverty, hunger, and to support the equal participation of women in society. Addressing longstanding concerns such as closing the gender gap in power, leadership positions, and ensuring access to education are at the core of her advocacy.
Addressing the Digital Gender Divide
One of the new frontiers in gender inequality is the digital gender divide. Anna Mae brings attention to the disparity in digital access and use, noting that women are 18% less likely than men to own a smartphone and far less likely to use the internet. She points out that in 2022, 259 million more men than women were online. In the technology sector, women hold less than 25% of jobs in science, engineering, and ICT, face a 21% gender pay gap, and nearly half have experienced workplace harassment. She calls for urgent action to close this gap, emphasizing the need for women to be engaged in developing digital solutions and for the creation of safe online spaces.
Promoting Digital Inclusion
As Undersecretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Anna Mae has been instrumental in implementing programs aimed at bridging the digital divide and digital gender gap. These initiatives include the Free Wi-Fi for All, the Tech4ED Project, and the DigitalJobsPH Program, all focused on improving ICT services in rural areas. The Digital Cities 2025 Program aims to expand the IT-BPM sector and strengthen local economies. Additionally, the Women and ICT Development Index (WIDI) Survey 2022 provides comprehensive data to inform more gender-responsive ICT policies and programs.
Inspiring Future Generations
Anna Mae's advocacy for gender equality and digital inclusion not only promotes economic empowerment for women but also addresses broader gender-based issues such as reducing gender-based violence and increasing political and social participation and leadership. Her efforts inspire future generations to continue striving for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo's unwavering dedication to gender equality and her impactful initiatives underscore her role as a leading advocate, driving change and empowering women to reach their full potential.






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