For women who want to turn passion into purpose
From Where We SitThroughout history, women have often faced stereotypes that limited their ability to pursue passions, careers, and leadership roles.
Candidates are asking: “where are your female leaders?”
Investing in gender equality is a proven driver of performance and a competitive advantage. The 2026 Women in Business research shows that Philippine businesses who are maintaining their gender equality initiatives and plan to implement new ones were the most likely to report significant growth in revenue and staff numbers. Investors are looking for gender-balanced leadership, or a commitment to achieving it, and employees view it as a reason to join or stay.
The impact of gender equality strategies businesses have put in place
Gender equality strategies have a tangible impact to businesses. These benefits are strategic imperatives in helping businesses grow, while navigating a quickly changing world.
43.5%
Employees feeling treated equally
28.2%
Having female senior leaders as visible role models
28.2%
Overcoming biases with their businesses
Commitment to DE&I and Gender Equality Initiatives
In 2026, we find a business landscape that is still pursuing greater levels of gender diversity, despite global headwinds.
98.9%
PH firms have DEI efforts
Countries with the highest number of women in senior management
In the Philippines, the number of women in senior leadership has risen from 43.0% in 2025, to 44.5% this year, making it the 2nd country with the most female representation in senior management.
4
7
.
3
%
South Africa
4
4
.
5
%
Philippines
4
4
.
1
%
Thailand
4
3
.
4
%
Colombia
4
1
.
9
%
Malaysia
Today, it is clear that Philippine businesses commitment to DE&I and gender equality is no longer a trend: it is a clear driver of success here to stay.
Romualdo “Boyet” V. Murcia III
Chairman and Managing Partner, Grant Thornton Philippines
The value of visibility
Organisations that make inclusion visible and measurable will shape the future of leadership. Download this year’s Women in Business White Paper to learn more.
LEADher: Women Who Pave the Way
March 18, 2026 | 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM | MS Teams
Across industries and communities, women continue to break barriers, redefine leadership, and open doors for those who follow. LEADher: Women Who Pave the Way celebrates these trailblazers—visionaries who challenge norms, empower others, and lead with purpose.
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