ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates – A powerful call to action for women to empower themselves by casting their votes in the upcoming Philippine national elections resonated throughout the celebration of International Women’s Month on March 20, 2025. Vice Consul Regatta Marie A. Antonio-Escutin underscored this message during an event held at Proexperts Event Place in Hamdan, organized by The Global Filipino Community Association (TGFCA), a prominent women’s group based in the UAE capital.
Escutin emphasized the crucial role of women in every sector, aligning her remarks with the Philippine Commission for Women's theme for the year: “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor Aangat ang Buhay sa Bagong Pilipinas.” She urged women to embrace their voices in shaping the nation's future. “It’s very nice, dapat talaga sa lahat ng sector may babae. Importante na meron, iba yung may boses ang babae in every sector,” Escutin stated. This sentiment fueled the forum attended by about 50 advocates, many of whom are members of TGFCA, a group recognized by the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi.
As the only woman among the four officers at the Philippine Embassy in the UAE, Escutin expressed the necessity of women's involvement in democratic processes. She echoed Ambassador Alonso Ferdinan Ver’s message, appealing for Filipino women to engage in online voting, emphasizing their potential influence on national development. "Importante na meron, iba yung may boses ang kababaihan in every sector... Ang message ni Ambassador Ver, bilang mga babae, very important ang role natin sa society, ngayong election, let us exercise that right,” she said.
The Department of Migrant Workers reports that an astonishing 52% of deployed migrant workers are women, indicating a significant demographic that can impact the Philippine elections. Escutin mentioned that the pre-enrollment for test voting began on March 20, 2025, ending on April 12, 2025. The overseas voting period is set to commence on April 13, with the last day for enrollment on May 7, and voting concluding at 3 PM UAE time on May 12.
Emma Wenceslao Sentones, the President of TGFCA, conveyed to GMA Integrated News that her group has tirelessly championed women empowerment and equality since its inception in 2023. “As an organization led by women, for women, we are honored to advocate for women's empowerment and equality. We believe that when women are empowered, the community thrives. We come together to celebrate our collective progress and renew our commitment to creating a world where women and girls have equal rights, opportunities, and power,” she remarked.
The group’s focus this year culminated in the theme “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” Sentones further emphasized their objectives by encouraging Filipino women to fully utilize their right to vote and make their voices heard within this democratic framework. “The message also underscored the convenience and accessibility of online voting, making it easier for Filipinos to participate in the democratic process, no matter where they are in the world. Vice Consul Regatta’s inspiring message served as a call to action, urging Filipinos to register and cast their votes online,” she added.
Joanne De Guzman Rico, Head of Marketing at SEHA, Salma Rehabilitation Hospital, was one of the main speakers at the event. She highlighted the strength and resilience of women in her address, stressing the need for financial literacy among women. “You have to have something when you return home. Savings can lead to financial security, isang tip,” Rico advised the audience. She emphasized the importance of understanding needs versus wants—a fundamental aspect of financial decision-making.
Rico’s educational approach aims to provide women with the knowledge they need to achieve financial independence and stability. Drawing from her own experiences and professional background as a marketing expert, she delivered practical advice to ensure women feel empowered, advocating all the while for their rights and livelihood opportunities.
Add to that the inspiring tale of Aloma Mae Mariano, who recounted her journey from a cleaner to a client engagement center coordinator at Medic Clinic Middle East. Starting her career in the UAE in 2004, Mariano spoke candidly about the struggles she faced but underscored that persistence is key. “I came from humble beginnings; my journey was not easy. I craft myself to work, I was learning every day. Hindi dapat makontento, we have to uplift ourselves,” she shared, encouraging audience members to keep upskilling whenever opportunities arise.
Mariano’s unyielding spirit serves as a beacon of hope for many struggling women, motivating them to overcome obstacles and aspire for more. “If you involve yourself in a community, uplifting and empowering others,” she noted, embodying the message of unity prevalent among the showcased speakers.
This event successfully shed light on women’s empowerment and highlighted the vital role of voting in safeguarding their rights and interests. As International Women’s Month unfolds, the emphasis on advocacy, equality, and active participation continues to resonate, reflecting the transformative impact of women’s voices in society—especially within the Overseas Filipino Workers' community in the UAE.
