Women leaders from across industries are calling for a shift from symbolic representation to real influence in the workplace, underscoring that inclusion must go beyond visibility and into decision-making power.
This message took center stage at Women Who Shape Tomorrow: Giving to Gain Progress, a forum organized by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP), where business and sector leaders gathered to advance women’s leadership and participation.
“Inclusion means women are not just present, they are influential. Not just invited but heard. Not just visible, but part of succession planning. The difference between symbolic diversity and real inclusion is intentionality — and that intentionality must begin at the top,” said Ms. Iris Palacio, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer of HSBC Philippines.
Speakers emphasized that while progress has been made, many organizations still struggle to embed inclusion into leadership pipelines. The discussion pointed to the need for deliberate policies — from succession planning to executive-level accountability — to ensure women rise through the ranks.
Moderated discussions also highlighted how International Women’s Month serves not just as a celebration, but as a reminder that the work of advancing gender equality must continue year-round.
The forum gathered women executives, advocates, and policymakers who shared insights on breaking structural barriers and redefining leadership models that reflect diversity and inclusion.
The event was organized by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP), a multilateral foreign chamber with over 940 members that promotes European-Philippine business relations. Through initiatives like this forum, ECCP continues to champion women’s leadership and foster a more inclusive and forward-thinking business community.