ENHANCE women participation in their conservation and restoration projects in the mining industry in order to harness their unique perspectives, knowledge and skills.

This is the appeal of Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Antonia Loyzaga to the mining companies during her keynote address before the non-government organization, Diwata (Women in Resource Development).

Loyzaga stressed that women are typically characterized as the most vulnerable to changes, and their multiple social roles can even lead to the intersectionality of their vulnerabilities.

Diwata advocates for the responsible development of the Philippines’ natural resources, principally extractive industries such as mining, oil and gas quarrying.

Loyzaga added that gender-responsive approaches to community assessments, consultation and benefit-sharing are all vital to increase the success of the mining industry’s climate mitigation and adaptation strategies.

“Let us harness our collective powers and unlock our potential and continue to chart the future of the Philippine mining industry where women stand shoulder- to-shoulder with men,” she added.

Loyzaga further explained that it is crucial to safeguard the rights of women in crafting environmental policies, social development and in decision-making through their inclusion in national and local level discourse on mining, climate, human security and the environment.

The DENR, under the leadership of Loyzaga, has been working closely with stakeholders in the environment sector to advance the promotion of gender equality in the workplace.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Cory Martinez