WomenBizPH Makes Impactful Presence at the Women Economic Forum ASEAN 2025 In Kuala Lumpur

June 19, 2025

LAYING THE GROUNDWORK:

WomenBizPH significantly represented the Philippines through meaningful panel engagements by key leaders who highlighted critical pathways for inclusive economic growth, global outreach, and impactful leadership.

The Women Economic Forum (WEF) ASEAN 2025, themed “Women Leaders Beyond Borders: Shaping the Future of the ASEAN Sheconomy,” was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from June 19th to 21st, 2025. The forum celebrated women’s role in driving economic growth, promote cross-border collaboration, and highlight women-led sustainable development. It provided a platform for influential women leaders from the ASEAN region and beyond to connect, share insights, and collaboratively drive economic progress.

HIGHLIGHTING WOMENBIZPH LEADERS

President Rhoda Castro-Caliwara
President Rhoda passionately discussed gender equity and social justice during the panel “Women Leaders and Social Justice: Building a More Inclusive Economy.” She underscored the role of digital transformation as a tool for empowerment and equality.

“Digital transformation is a powerful equalizer for gender equity and social justice when digital access, affordable connectivity, and literacy are effectively and deliberately addressed. Only then does it enable MSMEs to access new markets and scale more sustainably.”
– Pres. Rhoda Castro-Caliwara

Chairperson Rosemarie Rafael

Chairperson Rafael emphasized holistic empowerment through her insightful contribution in the panel, “From Headline to Solution: The Global Reach and Impact of Women in the Sheconomy.” Her discussions centered on comprehensive support structures vital for MSMEs’ sustainability.

“Empowering MSMEs is about creating holistic pathways. Connecting women entrepreneurs to markets, mentors, and digital tools. It’s not just about access but about building comprehensive ecosystems that transform informal businesses into sustainable, competitive enterprises through upskilling, bridging networks, and inclusive policies.”
– Chair Rosemarie Rafael

Past President and Member Chiqui Escareal-Go

PP Chiqui expertly moderated a significant panel discussion highlighting the importance of heritage, dignity, and spiritual intelligence in developing a meaningful and sustainable she economy. Her closing message encouraged linking the past, present, and future with deep cultural identity.

“We are trying to connect the past, the present, and the future for those wonderful insights. Let’s continue to build the she economy, not just for inclusivity, but really looking at who we truly are, our roots, our dignity, and of course, developing spiritual intelligence wherever our faith lies.”
– PP Chiqui Escareal-Go

STRENGTHENING ASEAN COLLABORATION

WomenBizPH’s active engagement at Women Economic Forum ASEAN 2025 reflects its firm commitment to empowering women’s economic roles, advocating for gender-inclusive policies, and fostering meaningful collaborations throughout ASEAN. WomenbizPH was represented by Chairperson Rosemarie Rafael, President Rhoda Castro-Caliwara and Past President & Member Chiqui Escareal-Go, and Executive Director Alliza Rebosa.

The groundbreaking forum welcomed 614 participants from 33 countries, supported by networks including four advisory board members, nine ASEAN advisors, and significant backing from Malaysia’s key ministries: MITI, the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, and the Ministry of Health. Featuring 24 parallel sessions, 10 plenary discussions, 9 roundtable dialogues, 6 workshops, and 4 fireside chats, the program was enriched by contributions from 4 keynote speakers, 29 moderators, and 20 dedicated members of the organizing secretariat.

Collectively, these efforts serve as an inspiring foundation, providing a clear and sustainable blueprint for ongoing ASEAN cooperation and economic empowerment.