GYEONGJU, South Korea — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday expressed belief that closing the gender gap could be considered “smart economics,” saying that strengthening the role of women in the economy could improve the world’s gross domestic product (GDP).
“To be truly connected and resilient, we must also strategically invest in our people, especially in women and youth, who are important players in ensuring social and economic stability,” Marcos said during the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting.
“Closing the gender gap, as our experience shows, is not only a matter of fairness; it is smart economics,” he added.
According to Marcos, empowering women to participate fully in the economy could add as much as $28 trillion to the global GDP, which would make this the most critical investment for sustained growth.
“We encourage actions to alleviate gender pay gaps and enable the full participation of women in the economy,” the President said.
Meanwhile, Marcos added that empowering businesses, especially local MSMEs, through access to finance, digital tools, and global markets would later unlock the full potential of the private sector.
“It is essential that we build sustainable digital infrastructure, nurture a future-ready workforce, and advance open, interoperable digital trade rules that support a vibrant cross-border digital economy,” he said.
Marcos arrived in the Republic of Korea on Thursday to participate in the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Gyeongju as well as to meet with top business executives, investors, and the Filipino community.
The APEC 2025 theme is “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow,” reflecting the ROK’s commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive future in line with the APEC Putrajaya Vision 2040. — VDV, GMA Integrated News
