In this regard, I am also proud to announce that for its part, the House of Representatives of the Republic of the Philippines has passed a resolution expressing its unqualified sup-port to this conference, Moreover, the House Resolution urges the conference to further advance the cause of women empowerment in the Asian region.

Ladies and Gentlemen, ensuring food security is part of people empowerment. Realizing the full potentials of women is women empowerment. This, I believe is what our conference is all about. Welcome to this conference on empowerment ! 　 MABUHAY KAYONG LAHAT !