PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has joined the entire nation in celebrating the International Women’s Day on Tuesday, March 8, 2022.In a statement, Duterte said he is proud of the country’s distinction as a “shining beacon of gender equality and women empowerment in the world.”Duterte said women have occupied positions of power and influence in the society, such as in politics, business, academe, local communities and most especially in Filipino homes.“This emphasizes, not only our values as a people, but also the importance we put on women as vital partners in nation building,” he said.Duterte expressed confidence that the country can do more amid the growing consciousness on equality and that women are “breaking the glass ceiling.”“As we gain more access to education, information and innovation, more women will have the chance to meaningfully participate in many aspects of human development and change the mindsets that continue to put women and other gender expressions at a disadvantage,” he said.“Let us come together in building a country where no one is left behind and everyone has the capacity to succeed. Mabuhay ang kababaihang Pilipino!” he added. (SunStar Philippines)