International publication Newsweek magazine reports the Philippines is the best place in Asia for women.

The country ranked 17th overall in Newsweek's "The Best and Worst Places for Women," which analyzed 165 countries.

The report looked at five areas that affect women's lives - treatment under the law, political power, workforce participation, access to education and access to health care.

The Philippines garnered an overall score of 86.3 out of 100, and is the only Asian country to be included in the Top 20.

China came in second place (23rd), followed by Mongolia (32nd).

In a statement, Malacañang said it is heartened by the results of the Newsweek report.

"This is an affirmation of the respect our culture has always accorded to Filipino women - one that manifests itself as well as in our government's efforts to promote equal gender opportunities in all spheres of public policies and programs," it said.

"Rest assured, our administration remains committed in advancing the quality of life of all Filipinos from all walks of life," the Palace added.

Newsweek named Iceland as the best place in the world for women with an overall score of 100, followed by Sweden, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Switzerland, Norway, United States, Australia and Netherlands.

The worst place in the world to be a woman, according to the report, is Chad in Central Africa with an overall score of zero, followed by Afghanistan, Yemen, Congo, Mali, Solomon Islands, Niger, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Sudan and Guinea.