Bridging the Gender Gap for Productivity: Lessons from the Philippines

This P-Talk examines initiatives aimed at increasing female labor force participation (FLFP) for productivity in the Philippines. Gender diversity is one of the keys to improving an organization’s performance. Notably, the Philippines ranks 20th in the World Economic Forum’s 2025 Global Gender Gap Index, achieving the highest position among APO member economies. In the Economic Participation and Opportunity subindex, the country has consistently maintained a gender parity level of approximately 80%. Dr. Ronahlee A. Asuncion, Professor at the University of the Philippines Diliman, provides an in-depth analysis of the underlying factors contributing to the high rate of FLFP in the Philippines. She further explores the broader implications of these findings for other APO members. Additionally, Dr. Asuncion outlines emerging challenges, future opportunities, and policy considerations for sustaining and advancing women’s economic participation for productivity.

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