While the Philippines continues to rank among the top countries for gender equality, real challenges still exist behind the numbers. Many Filipinas continue to navigate barriers in leadership, caregiving expectations, and access to opportunities in industries like STEM and manufacturing.
This is why initiatives that go beyond policy and create real, tangible support systems are more important than ever. At the forefront of this movement is Unilever Philippines, which is actively shaping a more inclusive future through programs that empower women both inside and outside the workplace.
Celebrating Women Who Thrive
In line with International Women’s Day 2026, Unilever Philippines reinforced a powerful message: when women thrive, everyone benefits.
Led by CEO Fredy Ong and HR Head Geeta Royyuru, the celebration highlighted how creating inclusive spaces for women leads to stronger communities and more resilient businesses.
Women at the Core of Unilever’s Workforce
At Unilever Philippines, women are not just part of the workforce. They are central to it.
- Over half of the company’s employees are women
- Around 660 female professionals work across leadership, supply chain, and field sales
- Women are actively present in roles traditionally dominated by men
This representation reflects a long-term commitment to inclusion, not just a short-term initiative.
Benefits That Support Women at Every Life Stage
What sets Unilever Philippines apart is how it translates its values into real support systems.
Some of its standout initiatives include:
- Expanded maternity leave of up to 150 days with full pay
- On-site daycare centers and nursing facilities
- Access to feminine hygiene products in the workplace
These benefits are rooted in the Filipino value of malasakit, ensuring that employees feel genuinely supported in balancing career and family life.
As shared by Geeta Royyuru, true inclusion goes beyond written policies. It comes from creating environments where women feel seen, supported, and empowered to lead.
Breaking Barriers in Manufacturing: Zophia Nicolas’ Story
Representation becomes more meaningful when paired with real stories.
Take Zophia Nicolas, for example. Starting as an intern, she built her career through the Unilever Future Leaders Program and eventually became a Sourcing Unit Manager.
Her journey across planning, customer development, and factory operations shows how mentorship and inclusive culture can open doors in industries often dominated by men.
Zophia encourages women to confidently take their place, sharing that leadership is not about waiting for permission but recognizing that there is space for them to lead.
Empowering Women Beyond the Workplace
The impact of Unilever Philippines extends far beyond office walls.
Through the Misis Walastik program, women are given opportunities to earn income while contributing to environmental sustainability. One inspiring example is Karen King, a mother of three who balances being a waste collector and running a small food business.
Partner organizations like Linis Ganda also play a key role, creating a wider network of livelihood opportunities for women across communities.
Supporting Women Entrepreneurs Nationwide
Another key initiative is the Kabisig Summit, which focuses on empowering sari-sari store owners.
- 89% of participants are women
- Over 30,000 women have been trained
Programs include financial literacy, digital tools, and business skills
Additionally, local programs like GentriAsenso help communities build sustainable livelihoods, reinforcing the idea that empowering women also strengthens families and local economies.
What makes these efforts stand out is their holistic approach. Unilever Philippines is not just supporting women as employees but as leaders, entrepreneurs, and community builders.
These programs show that meaningful empowerment happens when companies invest in people’s growth, provide real opportunities, and create systems that support long-term success.
A Step Toward a More Inclusive Future
If there is one takeaway from all these initiatives, it is this: empowering women is not just the right thing to do. It is essential for progress.
As more organizations follow this example, we can expect a future where women have equal access to opportunities, leadership roles, and the resources they need to thrive.
For readers, this is also a reminder to support brands and initiatives that champion inclusion and real impact. Because when women rise, entire communities move forward with them.