Laguna First District Representative Ann Matibag has been elected as the new Chairperson of the House Committee on Women and Gender Equality for the 20th Congress—an election hailed as a milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to promote gender justice, inclusivity, and equality.
Known as a tireless champion for women’s rights, Matibag brings with her an impressive track record that spans national legislation and grassroots empowerment.
Her leadership, deeply rooted in compassion and progressive governance, has long been defined by her unwavering commitment to advancing maternal health, gender equality, and women’s empowerment.
Currently serving as President of the Zonta Club of Laguna, Matibag leads the local chapter of the global women’s advocacy group Zonta International. Under her stewardship, the organization has implemented wide-reaching programs focused on legal literacy, healthcare access, economic upliftment, and protection of women’s dignity—supporting countless women across Laguna and beyond.
Matibag also founded “LaguNanay: Ang Samahan ng Maaasahang Kababaihan,” a grassroots initiative that builds communities of self-reliant, resilient, and socially active women. Through this platform, she launched the “10 Most Empowered LaguNanays”—an annual award that recognizes female leaders and entrepreneurs who exemplify strength, compassion, and service.
A strong advocate for breastfeeding and maternal rights, she has consistently pushed for inclusive policies that support working mothers and normalize breastfeeding in public spaces. Her approach to gender equality is comprehensive—starting at the level of family and community and extending to national policy.
Beyond her advocacy work, Matibag has led initiatives offering legal and medical assistance to survivors of abuse, while advancing programs that promote livelihood, skills training, and social protection for women. Her advocacy is anchored not just in ideals, but in action—creating programs that empower women to become essential agents of nation-building and social transformation.
As the newly appointed Chairperson of the Committee on Women and Gender Equality, Matibag is expected to spearhead a robust legislative agenda focused on protection, participation, and progress. Among her top legislative priorities in the 20th Congress are:
Strengthening the Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710) to expand anti-discrimination measures and improve gender-responsive government services;
Enhancing the Safe Spaces Act and the Electronic Violence Against Women and Their Children (E-VAWC) Law to address modern forms of abuse and harassment;
Institutionalizing support for women in politics through gender quotas and leadership development;
Empowering women economically, especially in the informal sector, through policy reforms on fair labor, entrepreneurship, and support for unpaid care work;
Revising the Family Code to ensure full equality between spouses, particularly in property relations, parenting, and decision-making.
With her deep roots in community engagement and a strong vision for national reform, Matibag’s leadership is expected to usher in transformative changes in gender policy and social equity.
Her appointment has been welcomed by colleagues and women’s organizations alike, who see her new role as a timely and necessary step toward a more inclusive and responsive government.
“Chairperson Ann Matibag’s appointment is not just a personal achievement—it is a victory for every Filipina whose voice deserves to be heard, protected, and empowered,” one fellow legislator said in support.