On September 11, 2024, the FICCI Ladies Organization (FLO), India’s leading association of businesswomen, hosted a bilateral business meeting with the Philippine Women’s Economic Network (PhilWEN) in New Delhi. The meeting aimed to strengthen trade and investment ties between India and the Philippines, with a special focus on fostering women’s entrepreneurship and leadership across borders. A 16-member delegation of distinguished businesswomen from the Philippines, led by Ms. Maria Cristina Concepcion, was present at the event.
The event, organized under the auspices of the India-ASEAN Women’s Business Forum (IAWBF), highlighted the growing importance of women’s participation in business, leadership, and economic development. PhilWEN represents a diverse group of women from startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and leaders who champion marginalized communities in the Philippines.
Ms. Joyshree Das Verma, National President of FLO, emphasized the importance of women leaders coming together to strengthen business ties and build lasting friendships across borders. She noted, “Both organizations are driven by the belief that when women unite, we can achieve far more than we could alone.”
FLO and IAWBF share a common goal: promoting trade and investment between India and ASEAN countries through the lens of women entrepreneurs. The two organizations plan to take concrete steps to foster collaboration in trade, investment, and women’s economic empowerment. This includes providing platforms for exchanging information and supporting business growth for women-led enterprises.
Ms. Vinita Bhimbhet, Chair of India for IAWBF and Past President of FLO, highlighted the significance of women’s participation in economic activities, noting that it enriches the fabric of nations. She reaffirmed FLO’s commitment to promoting women’s leadership and economic cooperation within the ASEAN region.
During their visit, the Philippine delegation toured FLO’s industrial park in Hyderabad, which features 100% women-owned units, and participated in a B2B meeting with Indian businesswomen. The event also saw the recognition of two exemplary women leaders from both India and the Philippines.
Diplomats, industry leaders, and senior FLO members attended the event, marking a significant step in promoting women’s leadership and strengthening Indo-Philippine economic relations.
