Senator Risa Hontiveros-Baraquel, who served as one of the speakers, shared her journey and experiences that fueled her advocacy for a just and inclusive society. She further expressed her pride and hope in witnessing the gathering of strong women, drawing strength from her own journey and the struggles of marginalized communities she lived among. She said that her experiences have been a driving force behind her commitment to advocating for a fair and just society, irrespective of background.

Furthermore, she also highlighted significant legislative achievements, including laws on agrarian reform, reproductive health, safe spaces, mental health, maternity leave, and welfare for solo parents. She said that these accomplishments have significantly impacted the lives of many Filipinos.

Moreover, Hontiveros-Baraquel emphasized the importance of women's representation in government, stating that female lawmakers play a crucial role in shaping policy priorities. Despite the challenges of gender inequality in politics, women in government have the opportunity to address the unique needs of women and marginalized groups.

“Let’s encourage and inspire fellow women to take space and help us accomplish legislative victories. Lahat po tayo ay nandito para sa iisang goal na isulong ang karapatan ng kababaihan (We are all here for one goal: to promote women’s rights). Yes, we are outnumbered, but our force is stronger when we work together,”Hontiveros-Baraquel said.

She encouraged women to take their rightful place in governance and collaborate to advance gender equality, as she also commended their resilience and strength in fighting for equality. She also called for continued advocacy against discrimination, violence, and poverty, stressing the importance of economic empowerment for gender equality.

“Ang mga kababaihan po ng Isabela City at ng lalawigan ng Basilan ay hindi na bago sa paglaban para sa pagkakapantay-pantay sa gitna ng hamon at suliranin na kinakaharap ng lalawigan at ng syudad para maibigay ang tumpak na lakas, tibay ng loob at talino. Napatunayan na ninyo na kaya ninyong pamunuan, kaya ninyong magbago at maging inspirasyon sa iba. ,” Hontiveros said.

(The women of Isabela City and of the province are no longer new in the pursuit of equality in the midst of challenges faced by the province to provide the needed strength in intellectuality. You have already proven that you can be a leader and an inspiration to others.)

Furthermore, Quezon City Councilor Maria Eleanor Juan who also served as speaker during the event, emphasized the importance of women, especially in governance and leadership. She underscored the unique perspectives, priorities, and significance of women as role models for future leaders and their focus on addressing the needs of marginalized sectors of society.

“Kaya ng mga babae. Uulitin ko, lahat ay kaya ng mga babae at ang tagumpay sa pamumuno sa isang lungsod maliit man o malaki ay hindi nakasalalay sa kasarian, bagkus ito ay nakadepende sa kakayahan at political will,” Juan said.

(Women can do it. I will repeat, women can lead a city, big or small; it’s not based on gender, rather it depends on their abilities and political will.)

“Ang BWEL ay nagsisilbing patunay ng nagkakaisang lakas, katatagan at determinasyon ng mga kababaihan na may katungkulan sa buong Basilan. Ito ay plataporma para tayo ay magsama-sama, magbahagi  ng mga karanasan, matuto mula sa isat-isa at bumuo ng mga bagong landas tungo sa isang mas inklusibo at patas na lipunan ,” the mayor said.

(The BWEL serves as a testament of the united strength and determination of women in the position in the province of Basilan. This is a platform for us to share experiences, learn from each other, and formulate a plan towards an inclusive and fair society.)