ABU DHABI, UAE – Filipino women in the UAE gathered to celebrate International Women’s Month with a powerful message: Your vote matters! 
The Global Filipino Community Association (TGFCA) hosted an inspiring event at Proexperts Event Place in Abu Dhabi, bringing together women leaders, migrant workers, and advocates to highlight the crucial role of women in shaping the future of the Philippines.
A Call to Action: Women’s Voices Must Be Heard!
Vice Consul Regatta Marie A. Antonio-Escutin emphasized how vital it is for women to actively participate in the upcoming Philippine national elections. She aligned her message with this year’s theme from the Philippine Commission on Women:
“Women should have a voice in every sector. If not women, then at least someone who advocates for their rights. It’s important that we are represented!”
Escutin, the only female officer at the Philippine Embassy in the UAE, stressed that voting is a powerful tool that allows women to fight for their rights and influence policies that directly impact their lives. She echoed Ambassador Alonso Ferdinan Ver’s call for Filipinos to register for online voting and participate in the democratic process.
Did you know? 52% of Filipino migrant workers are women, yet only 38% of overseas voters in the UAE are women. This event aimed to change that!
Key Dates for Overseas Voting 
March 20 – April 12, 2025 – Pre-enrollment for test voting April 13, 2025 – Start of overseas voting (8:00 AM UAE time) May 7, 2025 – Last day to enroll for online voting May 12, 2025 – End of voting period (3:00 PM UAE time)
Empowering Women Beyond the Ballot 
Aside from voting, the event focused on women’s empowerment, financial literacy, and career growth.
Joanne De Guzman Rico, a marketing executive and author, shared financial tips for women:
Save for the future – “You must have something when you return home.” Spend wisely – “Know the difference between needs and wants.”
Aloma Mae Mariano, a former OFW cleaner who climbed the corporate ladder, inspired attendees by sharing her journey from hardship to success.
“Never settle. Keep learning, upskill, and lift others up. We must help each other rise.”
Women Supporting Women 
Emma Wenceslao Sentones, President of TGFCA, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to women’s empowerment:
“When women are empowered, the whole community thrives. We are here to make sure every woman has equal rights, opportunities, and power.”
As the May 2025 elections approach, Filipino women in the UAE are being urged to step up, register, and make their voices heard!
