In line with the ASEAN Tax Diversity, Equity, and Inclusiveness (DE&I) vision of promoting inclusive leadership, sense of belonging, and social equity, the SGV Tax Team met with representatives from Samahan ng mga Pilipina para sa Reporma at Kaunlaran (SPARK!) Philippines on 8 June 2022.
SGV Tax Team with SPARK! Philippines team
Indirect Tax Senior Director Alden Patrick C. Labaguis, Associate Directors Gracia Mae A. Beronilla, Dawna Fya O. Bandiola and Senior Associates Lauren Antonette M. Mendoza, Catriona Janelle V. Gayatin, and Andrea Nicole C. Loreno met with SPARK! Philippines’ Executive Director Maica Teves and Project Officer Margot Catmunan in Greenbelt 2, Ayala Center, Makati City and discussed programs which would foster DE&I in the workplace and at the same time expand the number of exceptional SGV Talents.
Both teams exchanged ideas on how to further DE&I objectives by proposing training programs and webinars to help and inspire persons of all gender identities and social backgrounds. The teams also talked about gender sensitivity awareness, safe spaces in workplaces, and providing employment opportunities to diverse groups of people.
The SGV Tax Team and SPARK! Team will be meeting again by the end of July. Both teams, together with ASEAN Tax DE&I Lead Victor C. De Dios and other stakeholders, will continue collaborating to strengthen networks and explore different ways to implement the proposed programs.
SPARK! is an SEC-registered NGO composed of advocates for the empowerment of women founded by women champions committed to the nationwide development and inclusivity of women, LGBTQ+ and other marginalized sectors.