Celebrating women empowerment in International Women's Day Summit

Metro Manila, Philippines - SM Supermalls celebrated women empowerment in its fifth International Women's Day Summit on Friday, March 7, at the Samsung Hall in SM Aura, Taguig City.

The event featured leaders and tackled the importance of women in technology, safe spaces, business, culinary, and beauty.

"Women are not waiting for change, women are driving it. Women are not asking for space, women are reclaiming it. Women are not just seeking empowerment, women are redefining power and using power to lift up the people around them," Philippine Commission on Women Chairperson Ermelita Valdeavilla said in a taped video message.

Trade Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona, Wildflour Hospitality Group CEO Ana Lorenzana de Ocampo, Connected Women co-founder Gina Romero, Isabela, Basilan Mayor Sitti Djalia Hataman, and Canon Europe ambassador Chiara Negrello shared inspiring stories and emphasized the crucial role of women in nation-building.

UN Women National Goodwill Ambassador and broadcast journalist Karen Davila moderated a panel discussion composed of SM Group Sustainability Champion Jica Sy, author Gina Consing-McAdam, Happy Skin and BLK co-founder/CEO Jacqe Gutierrez, BackScoop founder Amanda Cua, Dr. Rica Cruz, and Canva Southeast Asia Regional Lead Yani Hornilla-Donato.

Bledes Fores-Legarda read the speech prepared by her sister, chef and restaurateur Margarita Fores, who was tapped as one of the speakers. Margarita died on Feb. 11 at the age of 65.

Social media influencer and vlogger Small Laude was also present as BDO's brand ambassador.