Every year, on this day, we pause to celebrate the invaluable contributions of midwives worldwide. Their unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and promoting the well-being of women and newborns is nothing short of heroic.

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Philippines convened its latest "Breakfast for Her" meeting last April 17, bringing together international development partners to address the critical issue of gender-based violence (GBV) in the country.

Despite global gains in sexual and reproductive health and rights over the last thirty years, millions of women and girls – including those from the Philippines – have been deprived of access and opportunities, according to the 2024 State of World Population report, released today by UNFPA, the United Nations’ sexual and reproductive health agency.