Schneider Electric kicks off the year with significant sustainability milestones, exceeds 2024 target

Schneider Electric kicks off the year with significant sustainability milestones, exceeds 2024 target

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, announced that its Schneider Sustainability Impact (SSI) program achieved a score of 7.95 out of 10 for the first quarter of 2025, towards a target of 8.80/10 by the end of the year.

Recognized as the world’s most sustainable corporation by Corporate Knights, Schneider Electric continues to make significant strides towards its sustainability goals as it enters the final year of its current SSI program. The company also recently published details of its sustainability performance for the final quarter of 2024, alongside its full-year financial results. The company’s SSI score for 2024 reached 7.55 out of 10, surpassing the end-year target of 7.40. Monitoring and reporting on the 11 global commitments of its SSI’s quarterly progress remains essential to achieving the company’s goals across all dimensions of environmental, social, and governance (ESG).

SSI is the company’s framework for measuring sustainability progress, aligned with its business strategy. Performance is tracked against a 2020 baseline, with some programs using adjusted baselines due to COVID-19. SSI scores progress on a 10-point scale, where the 2025 target equals 10/10, and the base year is 3/10. Scores are calculated per key performance indicator, averaged equally (excluding Local Commitment), and externally audited annually. In 2024, SSI #8 received "reasonable" assurance.

“In 2024, Schneider Electric was recognized by TIME and Statista as the World’s Most Sustainable Company. Earlier this year, we were honored to receive the same recognition from Corporate Knights as part of its Global 100 ranking – marking our second time topping this list and a first for any corporation. These remarkable achievements, alongside other key ESG recognitions inspire us to reach even greater heights in 2025,” said Chris Leong, Chief Sustainability Officer at Schneider Electric. “As we enter the final year of our Sustainability Impact program, we are determined to continue transforming ambition into action. There's still work ahead, but with the support of our extensive ecosystem, our people, and all our Impact Makers, we will succeed.”

In Q1 2025, Schneider Electric helped customers save and avoid nearly 700 million tonnes of CO₂ through its solutions. Since 2018, its energy-saving technologies have enabled 679 million tonnes in avoided emissions. It also achieved a 42% emissions cut from its top 1,000 suppliers through energy efficiency and renewables under the Zero Carbon Project.

Schneider Electric’s suppliers uphold decent work standards, with compliance rising from 21% in 2023 to 63% in 2024. Exceeding its SSI goal ahead of schedule, Schneider has provided clean electricity to 53.4 million people and trained 824,000+ individuals in energy management, nearing its 1 million target by 2025. Through its Youth Education & Entrepreneurship program, Schneider equips young people with skills for sustainable careers.

In addition to these accomplishments, for the 14th consecutive year, Schneider Electric has been included in the Dow Jones Best-in-Class World Index, achieved a place on CDP’s A list, and earned a AAA rating from MSCI ESG. Its latest score from EcoVadis also secured a Platinum medal.

“At Schneider, we believe in strong partnerships with corporations, governments, local partners, and communities to uplift livelihoods, boost incomes, and expand access to education and reliable, clean energy,” added Leong. “I'm especially proud of our people’s relentless pursuit to turn ambition into action, from innovating solutions for environmental impact to giving back to our communities. Together, we’re making progress and sustainability a reality for all.”

For further insights on Schneider’s Sustainability Impact program, explore Schneider Electric's Q4 and Q1 2025 reports featuring detailed progress dashboards.

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I am MAD debuts ‘Powered by Volunteer15m,’ marks 100th outreach

I am MAD debuts ‘Powered by Volunteer15m,’ marks 100th outreach

'I am Powered by Volunteer15m' launch during MAD Meet Annual Volunteer Reunion & Anniversary Celebration in Baguio City.

I am MAD (Making A Difference) Volunteers, Inc., a volunteer-powered nonprofit, marked its 15th year with a meaningful return to Baguio City, where its journey began. The MAD Meet Annual Volunteer Reunion & Anniversary Celebration featured the launch of its newest campaign, ‘I am Powered by Volunteer15m – I am MAD: 15 Years of Heartfelt M15sion.’

This year’s theme, “I am Powered by Volunteer15m,” celebrates the unwavering spirit that fuels every outreach. It’s a tribute to the passion, commitment, and love of every volunteer who powers its mission to make a difference in the lives of Filipino children and communities.

The gathering became a full-circle moment for founders Maco Ravanzo and Christian Marx Rivero, who first conceptualized I am MAD in 2009 amid the cool breeze and pine-lined streets of Baguio. From just two passionate volunteers, the organization has since evolved into a nationwide movement with nearly 1,000 active “MADmates” dedicated to reaching underserved communities across the Philippines.

“What began as a simple dream has grown into a thriving community of changemakers,” Ravanzo shared. “Being back here with our volunteers is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come—and the greater impact we can still create together.”

Honoring Beacons of Volunteerism and breaking new ground

As part of the celebration, I am MAD honored 15 exceptional volunteer leaders with the ‘Alab ng Puso’ Beacon of Volunteerism Award, a special tribute to their selfless contributions over the years. The awardees were Ramona Rivero, Raymark Estael, Big Jay Lagang, Jake Villanueva, Ruth Dağli, Kevin Conrad Tansiongco, Erwin Dela Cruz, Mayo Ceazar Mendoza, John Martin Recio, Lester Lim, Julian Robert Obamos, Carmela Magbanua, Ymari Kristia Pascua, Ralph Laurence Manubay, and Lyman Hansel Gerona.

The event also recognized the dream team leaders behind last year’s outreach efforts with individual and group citations, celebrating their vital role in executing I am MAD’s 2024 programs and events. Other major milestones included the onboarding of 63 new volunteers and the launch of new initiatives that reached entire communities for the first time. Notably, I am MAD expanded its school outreach in Rizal and Palawan, supporting two schools per province—a first in its history.

A special highlight of the evening was a powerful cultural performance by the Uschong Cultural Ensemble, showcasing the richness of local heritage and community spirit. The celebration culminated in an emotional tribute to the founders, who were surprised with photo memorabilia and words of deep appreciation from fellow volunteers.

MAD Meet Cordillera 2025 was organized and hosted by MADmates from Rizal and made possible through the generous support of Power Mac Center / The Loop, FH Commercial, The Dağli, OK Custom Gifts, The Engravers, Creative ADOBO, KFC, Fudgy and Pepper, and MMA Jr.

100th outreach to build next-gen volunteer leaders

I am MAD also celebrated a historic milestone with its 100th MAD Camp, held in the upland village of Barangay Puguil, Santol, La Union. The three-day outreach, which also served as the 2nd Builders Camp after 10 years, brought together around 40 children and dozens of volunteers for a weekend of values formation, storytelling, and community bonding at Liguay Elementary School.

Beyond outreach, the Builders Camp doubled as an immersive training ground for aspiring volunteer leaders: Aldrine Anzures, Anna Ricka Nacasabog, Beezus Abesamis, Emmanuelle Jasper Relativo, Heini Borromeo, Jahnnela Faith Bonilla, Jalilah Sarip, Lourielaine Garcia, Marco Sayas, and Michelle Del Rosario. Carefully selected from over a hundred applicants, these emerging “builders” received free training on both the technical and relational aspects of running a MAD Camp. They gained hands-on experience in program facilitation, logistics, and community engagement. Senior volunteers also played a key role, offering inspiration, mentorship, and behind-the-scenes support—equipping the next wave of changemakers with both heart and skill.

Despite the steep terrain and rough roads, volunteers arrived with full hearts and a shared mission: to uplift lives in underserved areas. Signature segments like MAD Talks Padayon created safe spaces for healing and reflection, with a message that resonated deeply: “Do it because God allows you to do it.”

Local officials, including La Union Governor Rafy Ortega-David, lauded the initiative and pledged continued support to improve access and infrastructure in remote communities like Puguil.

Join the mission to make a difference

The ‘I am Powered by Volunteer15m’ campaign invites more Filipinos to be part of a growing mission of hope, service, and change.

Registration is now open for MAD Camp, the organization’s flagship outreach volunteer program that focuses on values formation, education, and community-building for children aged 10 to 12. Camps are scheduled this year in Marinduque, Masbate, Surigao del Sur, Capiz, Zambales, Camarines Sur, Davao del Sur, and Davao Occidental. As part of the campaign launch, I am MAD is releasing a music video to inspire youth and professionals to get involved. Sign up at bit.ly/MADcamp2025reg.

Each MAD Camp is powered by BIDA Eskwela (Bigay Ayuda para sa Eskwela), a fundraising drive that provides every child with a “Bag of Dreams”—school supplies and tokens of encouragement. Support the cause by donating at bit.ly/bidadonate.

To learn more, volunteer, or explore partnerships, visit fb.com/IamMakingADifference or email iammadph@gmail.com.

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Empowering Dreams: FWD x JA SparktheDream Celebrates Financial Literacy and Youth Entrepreneurship

Empowering Dreams: FWD x JA SparktheDream Celebrates Financial Literacy and Youth Entrepreneurship

FWD Life Insurance and JA Philippines successfully concluded the FWD x JA SparktheDream: Igniting Success, Celebrating Excellence event at the FWD Office in Bonifacio Global City. This inspiring gathering celebrated the achievements of the JA SparktheDream program, which equipped thousands of young students with essential financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills.

A total of 8,822 students from Albay, Bulacan, Pasay City, and Mandaluyong have been empowered through this initiative, setting a solid foundation for responsible financial decision-making.

“As the insurer of the next generation, we believe in empowering young minds to take charge of their future. Through JA SparktheDream, we have equipped students with essential financial literacy knowledge at an early age, shaping future leaders and entrepreneurs who can make a positive impact in their communities,” shared Arnolfo de Leon, Chief Agency Officer at FWD Life Insurance.

The event honored key partners from the Department of Education, recognizing their unwavering support in making the program a success. Dedicated FWD volunteers were also acknowledged for their contributions to mentoring and guiding students through their financial literacy journey.

“JA SparktheDream equips thousands of public school students with financial literacy, fostering a future of responsible Filipinos. In partnership with FWD Life Insurance and JA Philippines, we empower students to make a lasting community impact.” said Asec. Georgina Ann H. Yang, Assistant Secretary for External Partnerships and International Cooperation, Department of Education

A highlight of the event was the JA SparktheDream Business Plan Competition, which showcased the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of young participants. Winning teams such as YES Crafty Bookmarks (Abangan Sur Elementary School, Albay) and Twin Burgers (Malilipot Central School, Albay) demonstrated exceptional innovation and dedication to their craft.

“Financial literacy is a fundamental skill that empowers young individuals to make informed decisions about their future,” said Krishna Alejandrino, Executive Director of JA Philippines. “Through JA SparktheDream, we are equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to turn their aspirations into reality, fostering a generation of financially responsible and entrepreneurial Filipinos.”

The FWD x JA SparktheDream event was not just a celebration of success but a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and partnership in shaping a financially empowered future.

Looking ahead, JA Philippines is set to host the JA ItsMyDream Bazaar on May 8-9, 2025, at Glorietta 1, where young entrepreneurs from the Alternative Learning System (ALS) programs in Mandaluyong and Pasay will present their innovative business ideas.

For more updates, follow @ja_philippines and @fwdlife_ph on social media.

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Appdome Unleashes Most Comprehensive Mobile Bot Defense Profile for Industry Standard Web Application Firewalls

Appdome Unleashes Most Comprehensive Mobile Bot Defense Profile for Industry Standard Web Application Firewalls

Delivers 400+ Defenses in a single MobileBOT™ Protection Profile to Turn Web Application Firewalls into Fraud-Fighting Machines

Appdome, the leader in protecting mobile businesses, today announced at RSAC 2025 that its AI-Native MobileBOT™ Defense solution now offers the most comprehensive mobile bot defense profile on the market. Capable of evaluating 400+ attack vectors in Android & iOS apps, OSs, devices, user interfaces and networks, Appdome’s new MobileBOT™ defense profile allows network security teams to not only stop brute force bot and credential stuffing attacks but also stop hyper targeted, spear phishing, account takeover (ATO), KYC fraud, on-device fraud (ODF), and deepfake threats in real time across account creation, login, password reset, payment and other critical API endpoints.

“Up until now, mobile bot defense has been about trying to stop brute force bot and credential stuffing attacks and inspecting the mobile device for 2-3 threat signals,” said Tom Tovar, co-creator and CEO of Appdome. “This isn’t enough. Mobile brands need to stop brute force attacks, for sure, but they also evaluate mobile device, OS, application, user interface and network level threats before allowing anyone to connect to their APIs.”

AI Has Changed Bot Defense Forever

Modern bot attacks aren’t contained to brute force bot and credential stuffing attacks launched from bot farms, automated scripts and similar attack vectors. Today, bot attacks can also include hyper-targeted ATO attacks that use AI-generated deepfake images, face cloning, liveness spoofing, and mobile Trojans to bypass biometric checks of specific users. These attacks can also be combined with client-side malware to intercept OTPs, complete Captcha challenges, hijack sessions, and exploit sensitive app flows like login, payment, and password reset. Some bot attacks weaponize the mobile app itself—evading traditional anti-bot defenses and putting user trust, compliance, and revenue at risk.

AI-Native Bot Defense is the Future

Appdome’s AI-Native MobileBOT™ Defense redefines mobile bot protection by providing multi-layered defense built for Android & iOS environments. While legacy bot defense SDKs aren’t protected in the app, use vulnerable cookies or JWTs to identify apps, and monitor only a few basic threat indicators such as emulators and jailbreak/root, Appdome’s MobileBOT™ Defense provides application-level rate limiting to eliminate the risk of weaponized and zombie applications, immutable application fingerprinting using secured client certificates to stop brute force attacks, and provides deep session risk, evaluating up to 400 configurable attack vectors in a single bot defense profile. With Appdome MobileBOT™ Defense, network security teams can stop brute force attacks and scan the mobile environment for any sign of deepfakes, social engineering scams, voice cloning, trojan attacks, vishing, remote access trojans (RATs), mobile device takeovers, and more before allowing a connection.

“Your bot defense strategy has to take AI into consideration,” said Gil Hartman, founding engineer and Field CTO of Appdome. “Brute force bot and credential stuffing attacks are one way the attacker guesses the user name and password of the victim. With AI, guessing gets really easy, really fast and your network and API defense have to be able to repel more sophisticated ATO threats.”

Tailored Profiles Stop Targeted ATO Attacks

Using a single MobileBOT™ Defense Profile, mobile brands and enterprises can evaluate up to 400+ attack vectors before allowing connections to any API, endpoint, or host. More importantly, network security teams can create separate defense profiles to address the specific threats applicable to each API. For example, network security professionals can evaluate different threats in each bot defense profile for:

Sign Up & Onboarding APIs - Detect the presence of fake users and devices signing up to your service including fake taps, clicks, swipes, gestures as well as fake location and devices.

Sign In & Password Reset APIs - Detect the presence of spyware such as keyloggers, overlay attacks, and activity monitoring, as well as ATO risk from deepfakes, ATS Malware and more.

Payment APIs – Detect the presence of data harvesting and trojan malware, MiTM attacks, session hijacks, OS compromises, vishing, social engineering scams and more.

“Tailored threat evaluation per API or host across 400+ threat vectors is huge,” said a leading industry analyst. “This level of deep inspection per API allows network security professionals to turn any Web Application Firewall into Mobile Fraud Fighting machine and get so much more out of their WAFs.”

Layered Defense to Stop All Mobile Bot Attacks

Appdome’s MobileBOT™ Defense solution is the only anti-bot solution purpose built for mobile applications, mobile environments and mobile businesses. Every feature of MobileBOT Defense is designed to address the unique computing environment, threat vectors and operating requirements of the mobile channel. Here are just some of the key elements of MobileBOT Defense by Appdome:

App-Level Rate Limiting – Leverages the compute on the mobile device to throttle API requests coming from “noisy,” malware controlled or zombie mobile apps.

Application Fingerprinting – MTLS Pre-Check authenticates the real app during the TLS handshake, allowing network security teams to deny API requests from bot farms, bot scripts and fake applications.

Extended Bot Defense Profiles – Evaluate session risk across up to 400+ separate threat vectors in mobile devices, OS, applications, user interface and networks to stop targeted ATOs, KYC Fraud and On-Device Fraud on a per API basis.

Pin to Host – Uses Appdome’s secure certificate pinning to validate the authenticity of servers your application is connecting to per API.

Dynamic API Updates - Remotely update protected hosts and endpoints without a new app release.

Zero-Trust and Dynamic Threat Evaluation – Allows network security professionals to control when threat evaluations are performed.

Hardened Implementation in Apps – Delivers tamper-proof anti-bot implementation in Android & iOS apps, free of spoofing, interception and compromise.

All Mobile App Compatibility – Works seamlessly with any Android or iOS app.

No-SDK, No Server Delivery - Eliminates integration work and infrastructure overhead, accelerating deployment and eliminating engineering work.

All Web Application Firewall Compatibility – Compatible with all industry standard WAFs; no change outs required.

“To protect Mobile APIs from bot and ATO attacks, you need a bot defense product that is purpose-built for the unique threats and challenges of your mobile app and business,” said Chris Roeckl, Chief Product Officer at Appdome. “You also need an anti-bot solution that works with all the Web Application Firewalls you have today and tomorrow, otherwise it just doesn’t work.”

With the MobileBOT release, Appdome now offers full flexibility for mixing and matching where and how to enforce mobile app protections. Mobile businesses can enforce these protections at the client app level, network layer, or a combination of both. Whether stopping brute force bots or user-level targeted fraud, Appdome’s layered defense model ensures optimal protection and performance.

Appdome’s MobileBOT Defense requires no SDKs, no servers, and no changes to existing WAF infrastructure, bypassing the limitations, complexity and cost of traditional anti-bot products. By working with any WAF, businesses can preserve and extend their WAF investments and, with client-side rate limiting, can dramatically lower data processing costs.

Appdome is demonstrating the AI-Native MobileBOT Defense solution and the full Appdome AI-Native Platform at RSAC in San Francisco at booth South-0948.

To learn more about AI-powered bot protection for mobile apps, you can request a personalized demo at www.appdome.com/mobilebot-defense.

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New batch of Out-of-School Youths flex entrepreneurial skills at FWD Life Insurance’s It’s My Dream Bazaar

New batch of Out-of-School Youths flex entrepreneurial skills at FWD Life Insurance’s It’s My Dream Bazaar

Find quality products while helping out-of-school youths build their best futures in this one-of-a-kind event by FWD Philippines in partnership with JA Philippines.

Coming from the successful inaugural program in 2024, FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) welcomes a new batch of out-of-school youths (OSYs) to showcase their financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills at the 2025 Dreamers' Pop-Up Bazaar: Powered by Passion, Driven by Youth.

Open to the public from May 8 to 9, 2025 at Glorietta, Ayala Center, Makati, the event is part of FWD Philippines and Junior Achievement of the Philippines (JA Philippines) It’s My Dream program, which aims to equip OSYs with the appropriate entrepreneurial skills to help them thrive and build their best futures.

FWD Philippines President & CEO, Antonio Manuel “Jumbing” de Rosas said, “As the insurer of the next generation, we believe our youth are the cornerstone for nation-building. That’s why we are committed to showcase the incredible potential of our youth who have dreams to succeed. It is our goal through this program to empower them to become their own agents of change, so they can ably support themselves, their families, and their communities.”

This year, the It’s My Dream program locks in a bigger number of participating OSYs. Products to be sold during the bazaar event were sourced by the participating OSYs from local businesses as part of the program’s practicum.

JA Philippines Executive Director, Krishna Alejandrino, emphasized how the program and the partnership with FWD Philippines is a testament to the transformative power of financial literacy to the youth. “Equipping these young dreamers with practical skills and real-world knowledge fosters their confidence and paves the way for economic independence. We are thrilled to see them take ownership of their futures and create better opportunities for themselves.”

JA It’s My Dream is under FWD and JA Asia Pacific’s groupwide financial literacy program, JA SparktheDream, which was launched in 2023. Learn more about the program by visiting ph.jasparkthedream.org

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Allianz Asia Pacific and INSEAD Celebrate First Pinnacle Excellence Program Graduation

Allianz Asia Pacific and INSEAD Celebrate First Pinnacle Excellence Program Graduation

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Setting a New Standard in Future-Proofing the Next Generation of Financial Advisors

Allianz Asia Pacific proudly announces the inaugural graduation of 200 agents and agency leaders from its Pinnacle Excellence Program (PEP), a first-of-its-kind initiative co-designed with INSEAD, one of the world’s leading business schools. This milestone underlines Allianz’s dedication to equipping its agency force with advanced skills and insights to navigate the evolving financial landscape, while also supporting the broader Pinnacle 2030 strategy focused on sustainable growth and enhanced client engagement.

Among the 200 agents and leaders, are nine (9) LifeChangers from Allianz PNB Life: Artemio Wapanio, Carla Joyce Garcia, Sharon Joy Ang, Dan Angelo Mamerto, Hayde Zamora, Maricris Comendador, Mariel Mendoza, John Michael Licas, and Alfredo Emmanuel Butalid.

Transformative Outcomes and Strong Agency Performance

Graduates of this first cohort demonstrated over 40% growth in productivity, and nearly 40% qualified for the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT)—a global standard of excellence in financial advisory. These accomplishments contributed to Allianz’s robust 9M 2024 agency performance, marked by a 19% increase in New Business Value (NBV) and 8% growth in Annualised Premiums (ANP). Notably, ANP per active agent climbed by 11%, reflecting a strategic emphasis on developing a high-performing, client-focused agency network.

A Program Created "For Agents, By Agents"

PEP was developed through extensive collaboration with leading industry practitioners, including Allianz’s top-performing agents and leaders across Asia Pacific. Their on-the-ground insights shaped a specialized learning journey that addresses the key drivers of long-term success in today’s competitive market. Unlike conventional insurance training programs, PEP integrates both academic rigor and practical application through:

• Blended Learning Delivery: Combining theoretical case studies, action-based projects, and role-playing exercises
• Focused Skill Modules: Spanning Customer Psychology, Leadership, Communication, and Entrepreneurial Strategies.
• Real-World Application: Equipping participants to translate classroom learnings into tangible results, from client engagement to team leadership.

“Our vision at Allianz is to build a world-class agency force that delivers exceptional service and trusted financial solutions,” said Anusha Thavarajah, Regional Chief Executive Officer, Allianz Asia Pacific. “The Pinnacle Excellence Program is a key pillar of our Pinnacle 2030 strategy, designed to elevate our agency force, enhance client engagement, and drive long-term growth. Through this program, we are not just transferring knowledge—we’re shaping the future of financial advisory by equipping our agents with the skills, tools, and mindset needed for sustainable success.”

Art Wapanio, one of the Filipino LifeChangers in the program, expressed his gratitude for being part of the experience: “I am deeply thankful to Allianz for giving me the opportunity to participate in the PEP program. Learning from a world-renowned business school broadened my perspective on both business and life. The opportunity to collaborate with passionate colleagues from different regional offices allowed us to exchange valuable ideas relevant to our work. I am eager to apply all the knowledge gained to ensure I can effectively help my clients achieve their financial goals and move closer to realizing their life aspirations.”

Elevating Industry Standards

In an environment where customer expectations continue to evolve, PEP graduates emerge as highly skilled advisors and leaders committed to safeguarding their clients’ financial well-being. By emphasizing lifelong learning, advanced financial planning expertise, and leadership development, Allianz aims to raise the bar for quality advisory services in the region.

“At INSEAD, we believe in developing responsible leaders who can navigate complexity and drive meaningful impact,” said Sameer Hasija, Dean of Executive Education and Dean of the Asia Campus at INSEAD. “Our collaboration with Allianz in the Pinnacle Excellence Program exemplifies this mission—combining world-class business education with real-world application to empower agents with the knowledge, skills, and strategic mindset needed to lead and create positive change in today’s financial landscape.”

Looking Ahead: Growth and Future Enhancements

The 200 graduates represent a diverse mix of new agents, aspiring leaders, and experienced professionals—each benefiting from PEP’s structured, hands-on approach. Building on this success, Allianz will expand the program in the coming years, allowing more agents to:

• Access innovative learning methods tailored to an ever-changing market.
• Develop leadership capabilities that drive team performance and client trust.
• Contribute to sustainable growth in Asia’s dynamic financial services industry.

Allianz remains committed to creating industry-leading development pathways that prepare advisors for tomorrow’s challenges, ensuring clients receive best-in-class financial guidance well into the future.

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EmpowerHer campaign highlights value of recognizing unpaid care work rendered by women in households

EmpowerHer campaign highlights value of recognizing unpaid care work rendered by women in households

Monday, April 28, 2025

Oxfam Pilipinas, Institute for Social Entrepreneurship in Asia, and OCI Group launched Asenso Squad, an online campaign that brings together the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) community to share lived experiences on breadwinning, unpaid care and domestic work, and gender equality.

The campaign, part of “EmpowerHer: Embedding Gender Equality in MSME Business Practices in the Philippines” project, addresses the issue of shared care work at home and how it limits work opportunities for women. The project, supported by Investing in Women, an initiative by the Australian Government, also promotes equal distribution of care work among household members.

“When household members share the responsibility of care work equally, it doesn’t just ease the burden on women—it builds stronger, more resilient households. It also gives everyone, regardless of gender, the chance to thrive both at home and in their careers,” says Lot Felizco, Executive Director of Oxfam Pilipinas.

She adds, “Women’s participation in economic activities brings a ripple effect—not only does it boost household incomes, but it also strengthens community economies and fosters inclusive growth. Redistributing care work is a crucial step in unlocking this potential.”

The campaign kicks off with an online forum, ‘Family or Career, Why Not Both? Pag-usapan natin paano sumakses sa bahay at buhay.’ The forum highlights the effects of assigning majority of unpaid care and domestic work to women in the typical Filipino household, limiting opportunities to seek employment or pursue entrepreneurship which can help support the family financially.

Gender gap in the workplace

The Philippines slid nine spots and ranked 25th in the 2024 Global Gender Gap Index, which measures gender parity or equal proportion of genders in four areas: economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment.

The report showed the Philippines had 1.4 percentage points lower in overall economic participation and opportunity. The country dropped 5.3 and 2 percentage points in women’s share of legislators, senior officials, and managers, and perceived wage equality for similar work, respectively.

Studies have pointed to women performing more and longer hours of care work as the cause of the decline in women’s participation in the workforce. Care work may refer to domestic work such as laundry, cooking, cleaning, childcare, and caring for older people or persons with disabilities—all assumed to be part of the woman’s role in the household.

A National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) 2024 study mirrored the reported decline in the Global Gender Gap Report. It showed that 0.8 percent of women (21.9 million) were working, compared to 76 percent (30 million) of men. The study added that marriage and childbearing are associated with a significant decline in women’s labor force participation, noting that women take on domestic roles while men take on economic or productive roles in the Filipino household.

An Oxfam Pilipinas 2021 study on unpaid care and domestic work revealed that women spend on average 6.5 hours daily on care work— three times more than men. Girls were reported to spend longer time on care work and total work than boys in the same age group.

Care work also puts women at risk of injuries, illness, and other harm. Both women and men respondents of the study said that beating and yelling at women and shaming men for doing housework were acceptable.

Join the AsensoSquad Facebook group page to learn and share experiences on how to succeed at home and at work.

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