8 March 2024  - Given the ongoing security challenges in Lebanon, the Philippine Embassy in Lebanon tailored its approach in commemorating International Women's Month, placing utmost importance on the safety and protection of Filipino nationals, including its personnel. Through digital platforms, the Embassy sought to enhance awareness surrounding gender-related issues, foster inclusivity, and extend support services to women working and residing in Lebanon.

Philippine Embassy in Lebanon joins the celebration of the International Women’s Month

The Embassy commenced its celebration with a virtual seminar for its personnel, held in partnership with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW). The seminar, aligned with the DFA GAD Agenda, tackled pressing gender concerns such as the necessity for establishing a secure and bias-free work environment. Notable GAD expert, Mr. Raymond Jay L. Mazo, spearheaded the discussion, ensuring the dissemination of valuable insights and expertise among Embassy personnel.

Virtual seminar on gender awareness for Embassy personnel.

In a bid to further enhance its advocacy for gender equality and empower women, the Embassy unveiled its GAD Corner, a kiosk within the Embassy premises dedicated to housing materials on women's rights and gender-related topics for distribution and borrowing. This initiative aims to educate and embolden individuals while nurturing a supportive atmosphere. Additionally, provisions of children's activity materials were made available to entertain youngsters while their guardians avail of Embassy services.

GAD Corner: located in the waiting area of clients

Acknowledging the needs of clients, particularly women accompanied by children, the Embassy introduced GAD-responsive facilities, including a designated play area equipped with child-friendly resources. This endeavor seeks to ease the burden on parents availing of consular or ATN matters by offering a secure and engaging area for their children. Furthermore, a restroom for all gender identities was established, underscoring the Embassy's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Maintained by diligent housekeeping staff, the restroom is stocked with essential sanitary supplies, including sanitary napkins.

As the Embassy is committed to recognizing and celebrating the invaluable contributions of women to society, souvenirs will be given to women clients during their visit to the Embassy for the whole month of March. 

 Souvenirs for women: passport cover and snacks  

The launch of these initiatives marks only the beginning of the Embassy’s celebration of International Women's Month. Recognizing the reach and impact of online platforms, upcoming activities will continue to be conducted online to ensure maximum engagement with Filipino nationals. Additionally, The Embassy will collaborate with partner organizations on women to conduct information campaigns for OFWs in Lebanon and participate in OWWA's Women's Month activities.

The Embassy remains committed to promoting gender equality, empowering women, and fostering a secure and inclusive environment for all, the Embassy reaffirms its commitment to serving the Filipino community in Lebanon with unwavering excellence and compassion amid prevailing security challenges.