May I congratulate our lady colleagues as they take centerstage in the proceedings this afternoon.

This is an annual undertaking as we celebrate women’s month and International Women’s Day on March 8.

This is also to underscore our commitment to gender equality and gender sensitivity even as we recognize and honor the numerous achievements of women throughout history.

I hope that this yearly undertaking will be a daily occurrence as we enact laws which enshrine the equality between men and women and protect and promote women’s rights and welfare.

Women’s Month and International Women’s Day are also celebrated as a reminder that there is so much more we can do to advance women’s rights and gender equality and ensure that women take their rightful place at the table.

We should always remember that ultimately, gender equality is not only a women’s issue. It is a fundamental human rights issue and requires the unwavering support of both men and women if we are to create a more just and progressive world for generations to come.

Again, Godspeed to our lady Representatives as we install women to the pedestal they richly deserve.