Manila, Nov. 3 -- Women's empowerment should include freedom of choice, dignity and protection from abuse, not just financial independence, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) said as it called for stronger support for caregivers and recognition of unpaid care work.

"Empowerment cannot be measured by economic independence alone. Financial security is an essential safeguard, but true empowerment is fundamentally defined by agency," the commission said in a statement over the weekend.

The PCW made the call in connection with the United Nations' International Day of Care and Support, urging the government and businesses to provide more public daycare facilities, fair wages, paid parental leave and flexible work arrangements.

Many Fi...