DOST Assistant Secretary Diana L. Ignacio (standing behind the podium) highlights the national initiatives empowering women in STEM.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) reaffirmed its commitment to women’s leadership in science, technology, and innovation at the 4th ASEAN Women Leaders’ Summit, held from September 29 to October 01, 2026 at the EDSA Shangri-La, Mandaluyong City.
Carrying the theme “Women’s Leadership for Inclusive Prosperity in the ASEAN Region,” the summit convened regional leaders, policymakers, and innovators to drive women’s advancement across key sectors.
Speaking at the plenary session “From Science to Solutions– Advancing Women’s Leadership in Science and Innovation,” DOST Assistant Secretary Diana L. Ignacio highlighted national initiatives empowering women in STEM, representing both the Department and the ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation (COSTI-Philippines).
“Our programs are designed not only to increase women’s participation in STEM but to ensure their progression into leadership roles where they can drive innovation and shape solutions for regional challenges,” Ignacio emphasized.
Ignacio detailed key flagship initiatives, including structured mentorship networks, industry-academia research partnerships, and inclusive talent mobility schemes designed to help women researchers transition from contributors to decision-makers.
For his part, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. emphasized the critical role of women in solving regional challenges: “Women in STEM are not just participants in innovation—they are leaders who can transform research into solutions for climate change, public health, and digital transformation. DOST remains committed to building clear pathways for women to lead in science and technology.”
Undersecretary Leah J. Buendia, COSTI Chair for the Philippines added, “our collaboration with ASEAN expands access to resources, networks, and leadership roles for women in STEM. This is how we build a future-ready innovation ecosystem that is both inclusive and resilient.”
The summit featured contributions from across ASEAN Member States, emphasizing cross-pillar collaboration to advance women’s leadership in STEM, biodiversity conservation, peace and security, and non-traditional sectors.
Reference: Charlene U. Basig, DOST–ITCU
