In photo (L-R): Luisa Hebron, SGV Talent Team Director, Julia Abad, PBCWE Executive Director, Maya Juwita, Investing in Women (IW) Workplace Gender Equality Director, Ma. Aurora “Boots” Geotina-Garcia, PhilWEN Founding Chairperson and President and PBCWE Governing Council Chairperson, Melissa Vergel De Dios, PLDT Inc. First Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer, Isabel Sagun, Ayala Land, Inc., Chief Human Resources Officer, Leah Yvette Alay-Ay, Ayala Land, Inc. Human Resources Manager, Rozana Pecson, Insular Life Assurance Company, Ltd. Human Resources Head, Ramon A. Galang, A. Magsaysay Global Process Manager Inc. Human Resource Head
20 May 2025, Makati City, Philippines — The Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE) is pleased to announce the election of PLDT Inc. (PSE: TEL) (NYSE: PHI) as a member of its Governing Council. The election results were confirmed during PBCWE’s 14th Governing Council Meeting on April 24, 2025.
The Governing Council plays a crucial role in shaping PBCWE’s strategic direction, overseeing programs, and advancing workplace gender equality across Philippine businesses.
“We are proud to welcome PLDT to the PBCWE Governing Council,” said Ma. Aurora “Boots” Geotina-Garcia, Philippine Women’s Economic Network (PhilWEN) Founding Chairperson and President, and PBCWE Governing Council Chairperson. “Its active engagement and leadership in promoting gender equality will be invaluable in shaping the future of inclusive business practices in the Philippines.”
PLDT and its wireless subsidiary, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), joined PBCWE in 2021, becoming the first Philippine telecommunications companies to sign on as coalition members. Their involvement underscores the PLDT Group’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion under the social pillar of its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) program.
As the country’s largest fully integrated telecommunications company, PLDT has implemented landmark initiatives, internal campaigns, and inclusive policies that promote equal opportunities and gender equality in the workplace. These efforts reflect its long-standing commitment to being an equal-opportunity employer and fostering an inclusive culture where employees can thrive.
“We are honored to be elected to the PBCWE Governing Council,” said Melissa Vergel De Dios, PLDT Inc. First Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer. “At PLDT and Smart, we believe that advancing women’s economic empowerment and fostering inclusive workplaces are not only moral imperatives but also essential drivers of innovation, engagement, and long-term business resilience. We look forward to contributing to the Coalition’s shared mission.”
PLDT’s election to the council reinforces the collective commitment among PBCWE members to advancing women’s economic empowerment and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. An inclusive and equitable workplace drives innovation, nurtures talent development, and contributes to sustainable business growth and long-term socio-economic progress in the country.
