Herstory

The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), formerly known as the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women (NCRFW), has its story linked to the history of Philippine feminism, women’s movements, and gender mainstreaming.

The Commission is the primary policymaking and coordinating body on women and gender equality concerns. It continues to build upon the past efforts and achievements in advancing the status of women. It acts as a catalyst for gender mainstreaming, the authority on women’s concerns, and advocates for women’s empowerment, gender equity, and gender equality.

On August 14, 2009, through the Republic Act 9710, otherwise known as the Magna Carta of Women, the NCRFW was renamed PCW. Its mandate was expanded, and its structure and staffing pattern were revised with assistance from the Department of Budget and Management. The Commission is then tasked to monitor and oversee the implementation of the Magna Carta and ensure that government agencies are capacitated in its effective implementation.

To illustrate the position of women and the Commission in the history of the country, below were the series of events that transpired from the 1970s to the present:

Download the Herstory here.