PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

20 November 2024, SYDNEY – Philippine Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen De La Vega joined top influential Filipina professionals from around the world in a Filipina Global Leadership Summit organized by the Filipina Women’s Network (FWN) on 27-31 October 2024 in Sydney. The Summit aimed to bring together Filipinas from different sectors to talk about their leadership journey and offer opportunities to mentor young Filipina leaders.

With the theme “FemTech Futures: The AI and Tech Revolution”, the Summit tackled the challenges and opportunities of AI and digital transformation and harnessing the power of technology for a future that empowers Filipinas.

In her keynote address, Ambassador De La Vega underscored that technology can help women amplify their voices to mobilize support and advocate for change towards a more inclusive, equitable, just and sustainable society. The Ambassador shared efforts to drive digital innovation in the Philippines such as the launching of the country’s National AI Strategy Roadmap and the Center for AI Research (CAIR) to incorporate education, innovation, and ethical governance in the Philippines’ economic growth.

“We must foster a mindset of lifelong learning. Filipina women, as agents of change, must commit to continuously upskilling themselves and others, promote a culture of curiosity, adaptability, and innovation, break down the barriers and uplift one another”, said Ambassador De La Vega.

The Ambassador also moderated a fireside chat panel with Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Assistant Secretary for the Southeast Asia Maritime Branch Jane Duke on the use of technology and AI in diplomacy. The panel also discussed the strong cooperation between the Philippines and Australia on enhancing cyber security and critical infrastructure under the Strategic Partnership.

The Summit also honored the 2024 winners of the Most Influential Women in the World™ who are recognized for their leadership, achievements and contributions in their respective fields. The 2024 cohort included Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Ng Sandoval and Filipino-Australians Michelle Baltazar (award-winning media professional and editor-in-chief of Money magazine and executive director of ISS STOXX) and Mary Massina (experienced business and public policy adviser and CEO of Mary Ann’s Island Pty Ltd).

The Filipina Women’s Network is a nonprofit organization headquartered in San Francisco, USA dedicated to empowering Filipina women to become influential leaders and policymakers. It focuses on advancing their impact across economic development, social justice, and women’s rights within both the private and public sectors. - END