ePahayagan #882: The power is Hers

THE POWER IS HERS:
Celebrating Filipina Elected and appointed Powerhouses

 
 
 
 

Rechie Valdez (GLOBAL FWN100™ 2022) Re-Elected as member of parliament for Mississauga and Appointed Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism and Minister of Women and Gender Equality

Rechie Valdez (Global FWN100™ 2022) has been re-elected as Member of Parliament for Mississauga—Streetsville. First elected in 2021 as the first Filipina Canadian woman in the House of Commons, Valdez now makes history again, appointed as Canada’s new Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism and Minister of Women and Gender Equality.

Her appointment signals Canada’s continued investment in diverse, inclusive leadership at a time when DEI efforts are being dismantled elsewhere. Valdez’s rise is a message: inclusion isn’t up for debate. She’s not the exception. She’s the future.

Malabon Mayor Jeannie Sandoval (global fwn100™ 2024) wins second term

Jeannie Ng-Sandoval (Global FWN100™ 2024) was re-elected as Mayor of Malabon City on May 12, 2025, winning approximately 65% of the vote (92,621 out of 143,030 total votes cast). As Malabon’s first female mayor, Sandoval’s first term delivered over 1,000 housing units, provided medical financial aid to more than 10,000 residents, and launched her Global Project ‘Malabon Ahon Blue Card’ to digitize social services.

Leni Robredo (GLOBAL FWN100™ 2016) Makes History as Naga City’s First Woman Mayor

In May 2025, Leni Robredo (Global FWN100™ 2016) was elected as the first female mayor of Naga City, marking a return to her roots in public service. Previously, as the 14th Vice President of the Philippines (2016–2022), Robredo led the Angat Buhay program, mobilizing over ₱520 million in resources to assist 622,000 families across 223 communities. Her office achieved the highest audit rating from the Commission on Audit for three consecutive years and earned ISO certification for its quality management system.

Dr. Joyce Javier (GLOBAL FWN100™ 2018) Elected to Lead National Pediatric Research Organization

Dr. Joyce R. Javier, MD, MPH, MS, FAAP, KPSOM (Global FWN100™ 2018) Associate Professor of Health Systems Science, has been named president-elect of the Society for Pediatric Research (SPR), a leading national organization dedicated to advancing multidisciplinary pediatric research. Her appointment was officially announced in late April at the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) annual meeting in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Dr. Javier primarily focuses her research on preventing depression and suicidal behavior among immigrant communities, particularly Filipino American youth, through community academic partnerships and strengths-based approaches. She has led several NIH-funded studies aimed at improving mental health outcomes through evidence-based parenting interventions.

ibex Appoints Karen Batungbacal (Global FWN100™ 2014) to Board of Directors

IBEX Limited, a leading provider of global business process outsourcing and customer engagement technology solutions, announced the appointment of Karen Batungbacal to its Board of Directors. Batungbacal is a recognized pioneer in the Philippine outsourcing and shared services sector. She co-founded the Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP), the country's premier trade association for the IT-BPM industry.

See more faces of Filipino Electeds and Appointeds Worldwide here.

FWN SPOTLIGHT

FWN EVERYHERE!
From Los Angeles, New York, and London to Cebu, Manila, and san francisco

On May 10, 2025, Los Angeles bore witness to a transformative celebration of Filipina women leadership. The event, held in honor of Mother's Day, featured a special afternoon tea that brought together brought together generations of Filipina women, and the children they continue to inspire, for an intimate and historic occasion.

Mothers and daughters, mothers and sons sat side by side, witnessing a program that honored women not only as life-givers but as nation-builders, mentors, and movement-makers.

At the heart of the event were two extraordinary milestones:

  • The Ambassadorial Legacy Transition and Confirmation Ceremony of Ellen Samson (Global FWN100™ 2019) as FWN Ambassador for Southern California

  • The Los Angeles launch of DISRUPT 5.0. Filipina Women Leading with Intersectionality, the fifth installment in FWN's Filipina Leadership Series.

Rich with tradition and meaning, the ceremony featured the Passing of Light, where the torch of leadership was formally handed from outgoing Ambassador for Southern California (2023–2024) Edith Winterhalter (Global FWN100™ 2017) to Ellen Samson (Global FWN100™ 2019).

The ceremony was followed by the presentation of the FWN Ambassador Bag and the U.S. Flag—symbols of responsibility, service, and the collective strength of Filipina women leading around the world.

The gathering was graced by Consul General Adelio Angelito S. Cruz, whose opening remarks affirmed the global rise of Filipina women voices. And history stood in the room as California Assemblymember Jessica Caloza (Global FWN100™ 2021), the first Filipina woman elected to the California State Legislature, delivered a keynote address that left the room more inspired.

Then, from the pages of DISRUPT Filipina Leadership Book Series, came voices that shook the room. Authors and guest readers shared excerpts that spoke of survival, resistance, identity, and purpose. The narratives were raw, intersectional, and unafraid.

Every word delivered reminded the audience: The stories of Filipina women are not a sidebar. It is the headline.

DID YOU KNOW?

FWN just wrapped up back-to-back DISRUPTing events in London and New York this past March and April. Read the full story here.

NEXT STOP: Cebu, Manila, Northern California

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NEXT STOP: Cebu, Manila, Northern California -

A June to Remember — Three Cities, Three FWN GLOBAL AMBASSADORS, One message

This June, we’re showing up, taking space, and planting flags in Cebu, Manila, and Northern California with one unstoppable message: FWN is everywhere.

Join us for three unforgettable DISRUPTing events:

DISRUPTing Cebu

June 10, 2025
Afternoon Tea at 3:00 PM
MSY Tower Cebu

We begin where the sea meets strength. In Cebu, we raise our cups to Dame Mariquita Yeung (Global FWN100™ 2019), as she will be officially confirmed FWN Ambassador for Cebu.

DISRUPTing Manila

June 18, 2025
Brunch from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Dusit Thani Manila

In the capital, we gather to honor a woman who moves nations. Rosemarie Rafael (Global FWN100™ 2023), Chair of Airspeed, will be confirmed as FWN Ambassador for Manila.

DISRUPTing Northern California

June 26, 2025 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, San Francisco

We close this powerful month where it all began—in the Bay Area, where boldness was born. We welcome Laarni San Juan (U.S. FWN100™ 2007), nurse leader, advocate, and community pillar, as FWN Ambassador for Northern California.

AUDITIONS OPEN!
FWN to Convene The Vagina Monologues Reunion Show

In a time when anti-immigrant rhetoric surges and cultural backlash threatens hard-won rights, Filipina Women's Network (FWN) and V-Day are CALLING ON YOU to join our defiant, powerful production of V's (formerly Eve Ensler) The Vagina Monologues.

Auditions Open in Multiple Cities and Online

AUDITIONS

  • May 23 FRI, 3-6 pm Manila - (in-person)

  • June 7, SAT 3-6 pm Cebu - (in person)

  • June 14, SAT, 3-6 pm PDT - Saturday (in-person and Zoom)

  • June 23 MON, 5-7 pm PDT Zoom AUDITION

REHEARSALS 

  • Oct 5 SUN, 2-6 pm PT -(San Francisco in-person and Zoom)

  • Oct 19 SUN, 2-6 pm PT - (San Francisco in-person and Zoom)

  • Oct 27 MON, 6-10 pm PT - FINAL REHEARSAL (San Francisco in-person and Zoom)

  • Oct 28 TUE: 10AM until SHOW TIME > in-person DRESS REHEARSAL @ Herbst Theatre, San Francisco

Who Can Audition?

Priority: former FWN's TVM cast members from 2003-2022

We welcome participants of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities who connect with our mission to end violence against women, girls, and gender-expansive people. No previous acting experience required, just passion, commitment, and willingness to share these powerful stories.

How To Prepare

  • Familiarize yourself with Eve Ensler's "The Vagina Monologues" 

  • We will provide you a script to read

  • Come ready to engage in group exercises and cold readings

Beyond Performing

Can't perform but want to be involved? We also need need: stage managers, technical support, marketing volunteers, front-of-house team.

Nominate your world’s Most influential Filipina Woman

Each year, the Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network honors extraordinary Filipina women with the Most Influential Filipina Women in the World™ Award, the only recognition of its kind that celebrates global Filipina women impact, influence, and innovation.

This is your call to action.
Nominate a Filipina who is changing the world — one bold move, one disruptive idea, one fearless act of leadership at a time.

WHO SHOULD YOU NOMINATE?

  • Builders who architect systemic change through collaborative leadership

  • Founders & Pioneers who create groundbreaking ventures

  • Innovators & Thought Leaders who revolutionize industries

  • Policymakers & Visionaries who shape inclusive futures

  • "Nicole" Revolutionaries who champion justice and equality

If she is transforming her industry, her community, or our world — we want to know her name.

NOMINATION DEADLINE: JULY 31, 2025

ACTION NOW

  • Calling US residents: Are you impacted by the executive orders of the current administration? The rollback of DEI and Accessibility programs? Share your insights and stories. We want to know how you’re managing.

  • Send our way exciting updates about your career, business, or advocacy work.

  • If you, or a Filipina woman you know, is an elected or appointed official at the city, state, or federal level in any country, please send the details including a photo so we can feature on ePahayagan and on the https://filipinawomensnetwork.org/elected-and-appointed-officials webpage.

  • If you are awarded a grant or accepted into an accelerator or fellowship, share with us your news.

Send your updates, along with photos and complete details, to epahayagan@ffwn.org by May 31, 2025. Let’s celebrate your success!

Come Home to FWN and Celebrate our Silver Jubilee in San Francisco

Come Home to Where It All Began

The FWN Board is thrilled to invite you to a once-in-a-lifetime celebration – the FWN 21st Annual Filipina Leadership Global Summit and our momentous 25th-anniversary Silver Jubilee on October 26-31, 2025, in San Francisco, California, where our powerful movement first took root.

Our theme, “Shaping Pinay Futures: Honoring Our Memories, Continuing Our Legacies” captures the essence of this extraordinary gathering. For a quarter century, visionary women like you have transformed FWN from a bold idea into a global force for change.

We return to our birthplace for a Grand Reunion that will honor every milestone, breakthrough, and life changed through our collective journey while charting the course for future generations of Filipina women leaders.

This is YOUR moment to:

  • Reconnect with fellow AWARDEES who've shaped this movement since 2001

  • Reunite with The Vagina Monologues Cast and Crew from 2004-2022. Sign up to join the 2025 production and be part of the revival production here.

  • Share how you've amplified our mission in your workplace and community

  • Witness firsthand the far-reaching impact of your contributions

  • Forge powerful new connections with the next generation of Filipina women leaders

  • Help create the blueprint for the next 25 years of Pinay leadership

The Grand Reunion isn't just about reflecting on our rich history—it's about inspiring and creating Pinay futures. Your presence will make this milestone truly unforgettable.

Mark your calendar now. Your legacy awaits its homecoming.

AUDITIONS: NOW MORE THAN EVER: Join FWN's Revolutionary Production of The Vagina Monologues

In a time when anti-immigrant rhetoric surges and cultural backlash threatens hard-won rights, Filipina Women's Network (FWN) and V-Day are CALLING ON YOU to join our defiant, powerful production of V's (formerly Eve Ensler) The Vagina Monologues.

THIS IS NOT JUST A PLAY. THIS IS RESISTANCE.

Theme: "Until the Violence Stops: FWN Against Violence against Women, Girls, and Gender-Expansive People"

As regressive forces gain momentum across the United States and reverberate throughout the world, our voices become weapons of truth. The time to break silence is NOW. When women's bodies are legislated, when immigrant communities face hostility, when gender-expansive people face erasure—we must respond with uncompromising solidarity and strength.

This isn't just about performing—it's about reclaiming our narrative when the world tries to write us out of it. It's about creating a thunderous chorus of voices that cannot—WILL NOT—be silenced.

WHY JOIN THIS MOVEMENT?

  • Be part of an international community fighting gender-based violence

  • Transform personal pain into collective power

  • Create art that challenges oppression in all its forms

  • Build solidarity across borders, cultures, and identities

  • Show the world that our stories will not be buried or forgotten

AUDITION DETAILS - MULTIPLE LOCATIONS!

Audition and Rehearsal Venue: The Media Room, Ground Floor @ Hobart Bldg, 582 Market Street SF 94104

Performance Date: October 28, 2025 • 7PM @ the Herbst Theatre

WHO CAN AUDITION?

Priority: Former FWN's TVM cast members from 2003-2022.

We welcome participants of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities who connect with our mission to end violence against women, girls, and gender-expansive people. No previous acting experience required—just passion, commitment, and willingness to share these powerful stories.

HOW TO PREPARE

  • Familiarize yourself with Eve Ensler's "The Vagina Monologues" 

  • We will provide you a script to read

  • Come ready to engage in group exercises and cold readings

TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SLOT: www.ffwn.org/events

BEYOND PERFORMING

Can't perform but want to be involved? We need:

  • Stage managers

  • Technical support

  • Marketing volunteers

  • Front-of-house team

This production is more than a performance—it's a movement. Join us as we work to create a world where women, girls, and gender-expansive people live free from violence and fear.

In solidarity,

Marily Mondejar, TVM Executive Producer and Ken Marquis, TVM Director

WITH THE SPECIAL APPEARANCE OF V (formerly Eve Ensler)

On June 18, FWN officially confirms Rosemarie Rafael as fWN Ambassador for manila at Historic Launch of DISRUPT 5.0

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Isabelle Santiago
Senior Fellow, Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network
+1 415.610.6637
filipina@ffwn.org

SAN FRANCISCO, CA | May 14, 2025 – On June 18, 2025, at Dusit Thani Manila, the world will witness history in motion, inside a ballroom alive with Filipina women changemakers boldly redefining the face of leadership.

DISRUPTing Manila is a tribute, a reckoning, and a rising.

We are honored to gather in celebration of Rosemarie P. Rafael (Global FWN100™ 2023), the trailblazing founder and Chairperson of Airspeed, as she is formally confirmed as the FWN Ambassador for Manila.

A visionary leader in the logistics industry, Rosemarie transformed a modest operation, just one van and six employees, into a powerhouse logistics company that is now a vital part of the Philippines’ economic infrastructure. But her most powerful cargo has always been her unwavering belief in the transformative potential of Pinay Power.

More than a corporate success story, Rosemarie Rafael is a tireless advocate for women’s economic empowerment and gender equality. She serves as:

  • Chairperson, Women’s Business Council Philippines

  • Commissioner on Labor, Philippine Commission on Women

  • Treasurer, ARISE Philippines (Alliance for Risk Reduction and Resilience)

Her leadership has earned her numerous accolades, including:

  • Circle of Excellence, Woman Leader of the Year, ASIA CEO Awards

  • Leader of the Year, Italian Chamber of Commerce

  • Woman of Power, Philippine Daily Inquirer

This event also heralds the official Manila launch of DISRUPT 5.0: Filipina Women Leading with Intersectionality, the fifth volume in the groundbreaking book series that continues to answer a single burning question:

What happens when Filipina women stop waiting for permission and start designing power on their own terms?

Twenty-two women. Six countries. One shared truth: we are no longer asking for a seat, we are building the whole table. DISRUPT 5.0 is a blueprint for what comes next. The stories in this book confront systems, redefine leadership, and dare us to imagine a world where equity isn’t aspirational, it’s operational.

If you’re ready to be part of what’s next, these DISRUPT 5.0 authors will see you on June 18:

  • Marily Mondejar – Founder and CEO, Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network

  • Benel Se Liban – Managing Partner, JBC Group LLC | US FWN100™ 2011, Global FWN100™ 2022

  • Grace Jamon – President, Lapu-Lapu Cebu International College | Global FWN100™ 2022

  • Lorna Kapunan, Esq. – Owner and Lawyer, Kapunan & Castillo Law Offices | Global FWN100™ 2016

  • Mary Joy Abaquin – Founding Directress, Multiple Intelligence International School | Global FWN100™ 2021

  • Nora Kakilala Terrado – Founder, Caroleon Global Solutions Philippines | Global FWN100™ 2016

  • Regina Berba, MD, MSc – Infectious Disease Physician and Professor 1, University of the Philippines | Global FWN100™ 2022

  • Rhodora Palomar Fresnedi – Founder, President, CEO, Sunshine Farm Philippines | Global FWN100™ 2019

  • Rosemarie Rafael – Chairperson and President, Airspeed Group of Companies | Global FWN100™ 2023

About the Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network

The Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network is a U.S. nonprofit committed to increasing the influence of Filipina women globally. Through femtorship, leadership initiatives, and advocacy, FWN empowers the next-generation Filipina women leaders. More at www.FilipinaWomensNetwork.org

Dame Mariquita Salimbangon Yeung to be confirmed FWN Ambassador for Cebu; DISRUPT 5.0 Launch Spotlights Global pinay Power at Afternoon Tea Tribute

Media Contact:
Isabelle Santiago
Senior Fellow, Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network
+1 415.610.6637
filipina@ffwn.org

SAN FRANCISCO, CA | May 14, 2025 – The Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network (FWN) proudly announces DISRUPTing Cebu, a special afternoon tea and tribute event to be held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at 3:00 PM, at the 5th Floor of MSY Tower, Pescadores Road, Cebu Business Park.

This celebratory gathering honors the remarkable legacy and leadership of Dame Mariquita Salimbangon Yeung (Global FWN100™ 2019), one of the Philippines’ most revered philanthropic figures, as she is formally confirmed as the FWN Ambassador for Cebu.

The event also marks the official Cebu launch of DISRUPT 5.0: Filipina Women Leading with Intersectionality — the fifth volume in the acclaimed DISRUPT Filipina Leadership Book Series. This anthology spotlights the powerful personal stories of 22 Filipina changemakers across six countries who are breaking through barriers, leading boldly, and changing systems from within.

Honoring a Visionary: Dame Mariquita Yeung

Born in Medellin, Cebu, Dame Mariquita Yeung’s journey from modest beginnings to global impact is a powerful testament to purpose-driven leadership. Guided by her father’s enduring belief that “no one is ever so poor or small as not to be able to give something of oneself,” she established the MSY Charitable Foundation, Inc., transforming lives through health missions, youth programs, and social services for marginalized communities.

In recognition of her trailblazing leadership, FWN will confirm Dame Mariquita as its official Ambassador for Cebu, a role that affirms her ongoing influence in shaping empowered communities rooted in compassion, equity, and service.

Spotlight on Leadership: Featured Authors and Guest Readers at DISRUPTing Cebu

The second highlight of the event is the Cebu launch of DISRUPT 5.0: Filipina Women Leading with Intersectionality — the fifth volume in the acclaimed DISRUPT Filipina Leadership Book Series.

To mark the occasion, DISRUPTing Cebu features a distinguished lineup of authors and guest readers, most of whom are based in or have strong ties to Cebu.

DISRUPT Authors

  • Marily Mondejar (from San Francisco, California) – Founder and CEO, Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network | DISRUPT 1.0–5.0

  • Benel Se Liban (from Los Angeles, California) – Managing Partner, JBC Group LLC | DISRUPT 2.0 & 5.0 | US FWN100™ 2011, Global FWN100™ 2022

  • Gina Garcia Atienza – Chairman, SunStar Publishing Inc. | DISRUPT 4.0 | Global FWN100™ 2016, 2022

  • Grace Jamon – President, Lapu-Lapu Cebu International College | DISRUPT 5.0 | Global FWN100™ 2022

  • Janette Nellie Chiu – President, Nutrivalue Technologies Inc. | DISRUPT 3.0 | Global FWN100™ 2016

Guest Readers

  • Dame Mariquita Yeung – Chairman and Founder, MSY Charitable Foundation, Inc. | Global FWN100™ 2019

  • Jane Panganiban – CFO, Cebu Advent Development Corp. | Global FWN100™ 2022

  • Ma. Teresa Chan – CEO, E-Asia Tech Solutions | Global FWN100™ 2022

  • Maria Corazon Akol – President, Philippine National IT Standards Foundation, Inc. | Global FWN100™ 2024

  • Marylou Ngo Ang – Owner, Magna CMGN Solutions | Global FWN100™ 2024

  • Melanie Ng – EVP, Ng Khai Development Corp. | Global FWN100™ 2016

  • Paulette Liu – SVP, Primary Structures Corp. | Global FWN100™ 2016

  • Stella Bernabe – Region Head, Manulife – STELLAR OCEAN Region | Global FWN100™ 2016

About the Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network

The Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network is a U.S. nonprofit committed to increasing the influence of Filipina women globally. Through femtorship, leadership initiatives, and advocacy, FWN empowers the next-generation Filipina women leaders. More at www.FilipinaWomensNetwork.org

Unleash Her Influence: 2025 Global FWN100™ Nominations Now Open; Join Nominations zoom Briefings

DISRUPT THE STATUS QUO BY NOMINATING A FILIPINA CHANGEMAKER

In a world that needs bold leadership more than ever, Filipina women are stepping forward to redefine power, influence, and impact across every sector of the global economy. The Foundation for Filipina Women's Network invites you to nominate extraordinary Filipina women for the prestigious 2025 Most Influential Filipina Women in the World™ Award before the July 31st deadline.

WHO ARE WE SEEKING?

We're searching for disruptors, visionaries, and trailblazers who embody our credo: women who amplify Filipina voices, say YES to opportunity, and demonstrate unwavering commitment to our sisterhood. These leaders are:

• Builders who architect systemic change through collaborative leadership

• Founders & Pioneers who create groundbreaking ventures

• Innovators & Thought Leaders who revolutionize industries

• Policymakers & Visionaries who shape inclusive futures

• "Nicole" Revolutionaries who champion justice and equality

WHY YOUR NOMINATION MATTERS

Every nomination advances our mission to place a Filipina woman leader in every sector of the economy. When you nominate a deserving leader, you help:

• Dismantle discrimination against Filipina women and girls

• Elevate Filipina representation in positions of power

• Drive economic independence through recognition of excellence

• Strengthen access to vital services and opportunities

• Amplify voices against violence and oppression

• Transform Filipina popular culture through visible leadership

CALLING AWARDEES OF PREVIOUS YEARS (2007-2024)

Have you passed your leadership baton? Our global impact grows when you identify and nominate rising Filipina talent in your geographic region and professional sector. This is your opportunity to extend our influential network and fulfill your commitment to femtorship.

TAKE ACTION NOW

NOMINATION DEADLINE: JULY 31, 2025

Submit your nomination today at www.filipinasummit.org/nominate and unlock early bird summit registration rates ending June 15th. Selected awardees will be recognized at the 21st Filipina Leadership Global Summit in San Francisco - FWN's Silver Jubilee celebration where visionaries unite, collaborate, and create exponential impact.

We're building a world where Filipina women aren't just participating—they're leading the revolution. Nominate. Celebrate. Transform.

We are excited to meet your nominees!

The Global FWN100™ Award Selection Committee

PS: Join the Zoom Briefing!

BRIEFING: “How to Navigate the Most Influential Filipina Woman in the World Nomination Process"

You can choose to attend one or more of the following sessions:

  • May 20, 2025 07:00

  • Jun 3, 2025 07:00

  • Jun 17, 2025 07:00

  • Jul 1, 2025 07:00

  • Jul 15, 2025 07:00

  • Jul 29, 2025 07:00

Time shows in PDT

Register in advance for this meeting: https://filipinawomensnetwork.zoom.us/meeting/register/JBUzI9CIQXuhMaAvQruJXQ#/registration

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Take your Mom to DISRUPTing SoCal for Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea (May 10)

Join us for a moving Mother-Daughter Afternoon Tea on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 2:30 to 5:30 PM at the Los Angeles Athletic Club.

Whether you come as a mother, daughter, mentor, or friend, this gathering is for you. It’s a space to reflect on where we come from, who we are, and how we continue forward—together.

The tea will be warm. The stories will be inspiring. And the experience will stay with you long after the final sip.

CELEBRATING ELLEN

This evening, we also mark the Southern California launch of DISRUPT 5.0: Filipina Women Leading with Intersectionality—the latest in the Filipina Leadership Book Series telling the unfiltered stories of Filipina women leaders around the world.

These voices disrupt silence, tradition, and invisibility. They are the voices of daughters and mothers, of trailblazers and truth-tellers. They challenge what leadership looks like—and who gets to claim it.

So bring your mother, your daughter, your mentor, your tribe. Celebrate the women who shaped you—and the ones you’re raising to lead next.

DISRUPTing Southern California DISRUPT 5.0 Book Launch

This evening, we also mark the Southern California launch of DISRUPT 5.0: Filipina Women Leading with Intersectionality—the latest in the Filipina Leadership Book Series telling the unfiltered stories of Filipina women leaders around the world.

These voices disrupt silence, tradition, and invisibility. They are the voices of daughters and mothers, of trailblazers and truth-tellers. They challenge what leadership looks like—and who gets to claim it.

So bring your mother, your daughter, your mentor, your tribe. Celebrate the women who shaped you—and the ones you’re raising to lead next.

ePahayagan 881: Filipina Women of the World: London, New York, Los Angeles, Washington, Manila and Cebu.

Two global cities. One unstoppable movement. The Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network ignited the world stage with two back-to-back historic launches of DISRUPT 5.0. Filipina Women Leading With Intersectionality, the fifth book of the Filipina Leadership Series, and confirming the FWN Ambassadors in grand fashion:

  • DISRUPTing United Kingdom and Celebrating Myla Arceno, FWN Ambassador for the UK and and Non-Resident FWN Ambassador for Austria, Ireland, Italy, France, Norway, the Netherlands, and Switzerland

  • DISRUPTing New York and Celebrating Leonora Galleros, FWN Ambassador for New York and East Coast States

In London, the Khalili Theatre at SOAS University of London became a sanctuary of history and celebration. Important to note that the University of London has a thriving Philippine Studies Program in the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) led by Dr. Cristina Juan Martinez as its director.

Myla Arceno—FWN Ambassador for the UK and Non-Resident FWN Ambassador for Austria, Ireland, Italy, France, Norway, the Netherlands, and Switzerland—was honored in a moving tribute, joined by allies Member of Parliament for Stevenage Kevin Bonavia, London’s Camden District Councillor Lotis Bautista, first Filipina woman elected Councillor, and the Stevenage City Council Leadership Team.

The evening highlighted the voices behind the DISRUPT Filipina Leadership Series on stage. Authors, guest readers, and youth leaders brought to life the words that have sparked change and challenged the limits placed on Filipina women.

Should out to the dynamic Youth Readers, students in various London universities—Darcy Dias, Iryna Paloma Garcia, Lou Mari Mediatrix Ngo Ang, and Mary Sophia Arceno. Their energy was electric. Our next-generation leaders are on their way to amazing heights.

Basking on the energy of the London event, FWN board members Marily Mondejar and Benel Se Liban flew to New York for the April 2nd book launch. Nearly a hundred people filled Kalayaan Hall at the Philippine Center, bearing witness to a night that was electric with pride and purpose. Leonora Galleros, FWN Ambassador for New York and the East Coast States was celebrated for her unwavering leadership, surrounded by a powerful circle of authors and distinguished guest readers from DISRUPT 1.0 through 5.0.

Distinguished guest readers and authors included the Philippine Consul General New York Senen T. Mangalile, Judge Lorna Schofield, Global FWN100™ 2015, first FilAm federal judge of the Southern District of New York in U.S. history, Minerva Tantoco, US FWN100™ 2011, New York City’s first-ever Chief Technology Officer of the City of New York, Charina Amunategui, Global FWN100™ 2023, Lucille Tenazas, Global FWN100™ 2013, Henry Wolf Professor of Communication Design, The New School Parsons. Lucille designed the five book covers of the FWN DISRUPT Leadership Book Series, pro bono, her personal legacy to the Filipina sisterhood.

These aren’t just book readings at a typical book launch. These are global declarations: The Filipina woman is not a footnote in history—she is writing history so next generation leaders know they are standing on the shoulders of courageous women who paved the way for them. She leads. She DISRUPTs. And the world is listening.

NEXT STOP: Los Angeles. Washington. Manila. Cebu.

NEXT STOP: Los Angeles. Washington. Manila. Cebu.

REGISTRATIONS ARE NOW OPEN: ffwn.org/event-6145469 

⁠⁠June 3: DISRUPTing Manila organized by FWN Ambassador to Manila Rosemarie Rafael

June 6: DISRUPTing ⁠⁠Cebu by FWN Ambassador to Cebu Mariquita Yeung

DISRUPTing ⁠⁠Washington organized by FWN Ambassador to Washington State Sofia Aragon

FWN SPOTLIGHT

 
 
 
 

Benel Se Liban (U.S. FWN100™ 2011, Global FWN100™ 2022) Awarded as One of the Outstanding Women of LOS ANGELES City Club's 16th Annual Luncheon

Trailblazer. Visionary. Changemaker. These words only begin to capture the brilliance of Benel Se-Liban, who was celebrated as one of the Outstanding Women of City Club Los Angeles at its 16th Annual Luncheon held on March 12, 2025.

Benel was honored alongside an inspiring group of women at the prestigious City Club LA — Joan McLane, Schenae Rourk, and Norma Gomez — all recognized for their trailblazing leadership, community impact, and unwavering commitment to empowering others.

 

Carmina Aldana (GLOBAL FWN100™ 2019) Featured on News4JAX: Bridging Communities Through Global Health Leadership

In the feature "‘We saw the need’: How community spirit drives local Filipino American woman’s global mission in health care", Carmina shares how her Jacksonville roots and Filipino upbringing have deeply influenced her commitment to serving vulnerable populations—both locally and around the world.

As the founder of The Neurosurgery Outreach Foundation, Inc. (NOF), Carmina leads with compassion, cultural intelligence, and a bold vision for accessible, community-based healthcare systems. Her work in Mongolia, the Philippines, and Northeast Florida speaks volumes about her ability to mobilize people, resources, and solutions where they're needed most.

 

Dr. Joyce Javier (GLOBAL FWN100™ 2018) Honored by PACCTX for Championing Mental Health and Health Equity in Filipino Communities

In a powerful tribute to women shaping our future, the Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce of Texas (PACCTX) honored Dr. Joyce Javier during their “Her Legacy, Our Future: Celebrating Women. Inspiring Change.” event.

Dr. Javier is a pioneering researcher who is rewriting narratives in pediatric health and mental wellness, particularly for Filipino American children. Her work champions equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive care — creating safer, more supportive environments for families navigating mental health challenges.

 

DR. JACLYN TOLENTINO (Global FWN100™ 2021) FEATURED on SHOUTOUT LA

Dr. Jaclyn Tolentino has been featured in Shoutout LA, where she dives deep into the personal why behind her purpose-driven career as an integrative and holistic physician.

A cancer survivor and advocate for whole-person healing, Dr. Tolentino reminds us that medicine isn’t just about treatment — it’s about transformation.

 

Christine Amour-Levar (Global FWN100™ 2016) Spotlighted in IN Diplomacy for Her Work with Women on a Mission

Christine Amour-Levar has been prominently featured in IN Diplomacy's “Ambassadors of Change” column, where she shares the transformative work of Women on a Mission (WOAM). The interview dives into how WOAM leverages adventure and solidarity to support women affected by violence and inequality—raising over USD 1.5 million through global expeditions. Christine reflects on the healing power of community and the importance of amplifying survivors’ voices.

She reminds us, “True progress depends on the empowerment of women and girls, not just in boardrooms and parliaments, but in refugee camps, rural communities, and urban slums.”

ASK A FILIPINA

In her compelling piece, Margarita Gutierrez (Global FWN100™ 2019) makes one thing clear: mentorship isn’t just guidance — it’s a revolution quietly shaping the next generation of Filipina leaders.

Published in the Daily Tribune, “Mentorship for Leadership Roles” dives deep into the invisible walls Filipino women still face — cultural norms, gender bias, limited access — and offers a powerful tool to dismantle them: mentorship.

“The path to success remains fraught with challenges,” Gutierrez writes, despite the legacies of icons like Corazon Aquino, Loren Legarda, Vilma Santos, and Hidilyn Diaz — women who didn’t just succeed, but redefined what leadership could look like.

Yet thousands of young women remain on the margins, not because they lack potential, but because they lack support. That’s where mentorship becomes transformational.

“Mentors can help young women develop the necessary skills, confidence and connections to overcome obstacles and seize leadership opportunities.”

Organizations like Kababaihan and the Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network (FWN) are doing just that — building bridges, igniting ambition, and creating spaces where women from all walks of life can rise together. FWN’s “100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the World™” does more than celebrate — it connects. It creates lineage. It passes the torch.

And not all mentorship wears a badge — informal guidance between colleagues, whispered encouragement in boardrooms, or shared wisdom over coffee — these moments matter.

“Mentorship is a powerful catalyst for empowering women and cultivating leadership in the Philippines.”

Gutierrez closes with a powerful truth: mentorship isn’t charity — it’s nation-building. Every empowered woman uplifts a community. Every leader born of mentorship rewrites the rules for the next.

When we invest in women, we invest in the future. And mentorship is how we begin.

 

DID YOU KNOW?

In 1989, Captain Aimee Carandang-Gloria became the first female pilot to operate a commercial flight in Southeast Asia, and later the region's first female airline captain with Philippine Airlines (PAL). To honor her legacy and support aspiring Filipina pilots, PAL launched the "Fly With Her" program in March 2025. This initiative includes scholarships, mentorship, and storytelling efforts, aiming to increase female representation in aviation, where women currently make up only 6% of pilots globally.

ACTION NOW

  • Calling US residents: Are you impacted by the executive orders of the current administration? The rollback of DEI and Accessibility programs? Share your insights and stories. We want to know how you’re managing.

  • Send our way exciting updates about your career, business, or advocacy work.

  • If you, or a Filipina woman you know, is an elected or appointed official at the city, state, or federal level in any country, please send the details including a photo so we can feature on ePahayagan and on the https://filipinawomensnetwork.org/elected-and-appointed-officials webpage.

  • If you are awarded a grant or accepted into an accelerator or fellowship, share with us your news.

Send your updates, along with photos and complete details, to epahayagan@ffwn.org by April 20, 2025. Let’s celebrate your success!