House Speaker Ferdinand G. Romualdez has designated women lawmakers as presiding officers during Monday’s session in celebration of International Women’s Month.

Romualdez’s wife, Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda, has been assigned to take the podium for speaker duties as the leadership’s gesture of recognition of the significant role women play in society.

Others named temporary presiding officers to include Reps. Linabelle Ruth R. Villarica, Florida “Rida” P. Robes, Rosanna “Ria” V. Vergara, Lorna C. Silverio, Anna York P. Bondoc, Ma. Lucille L. Nava, Ruth Mariano-Hernandez, Midy N. Cua, Ysabel Maria J. Zamora and Margarita “Atty. Migs” B. Nograles.

Under Section 15 (H), Rule IV of the rules of the House of Representatives, the Speaker is empowered to designate a member as a temporary presiding officer after informing deputy speakers, provided that any such designation shall be effective for one session a day.

“It is an honor to be present today with fellow women who work tirelessly to make the Philippines a better place for our countrymen. Women are powerful agents of change, and the advancement of women in the society, including increased leadership and decision-making roles, is a positive indicator of progress for all of us,” Yedda Marie K. Romualdez said in her short opening remark before plenary sessions.

She noted that different facets of society are becoming more aware of the significant benefits of gender balance and diversity, recognizing that societies thrive where women are given equal opportunities and respect.

“Today, in line with our celebration of all womanhood this National Women’s Month, I welcome you all in this year’s all-women Session here in Congress. May this simple gesture of handing over power to the women be the platform for positive change as we continue to lead our nation to a kinder and gentler world for the next generation of women,” Romualdez also chairs the House Committee on Accounts, said.

She pointed out that throughout the world, women have been shattering glass ceilings and laying down a path for other women to walk on, from fighting for the right of suffrage to now being able to lead nations and influence economies.

“Women have become trailblazers and powerful figures in their own fields of specialization and the world can no longer deny us of our rightful place in society’s leadership,” she said.

Records showed that 48 percent or 1,941 of the 4,037 House members and employees are women. (PNA)