Foundation for Filipina Women's Network (FWN) Announces the 2025 Most Influential Filipina Woman in the World™ Award Winners

San Francisco, CA — The historic Julia Morgan Ballroom shimmered in gold as Filipina women leaders and allies from every corner of the world filled the room — a gathering of visionaries, changemakers, and dreamers moving to a single heartbeat: Pinay Power. It was the culminating and magical night of the FWN's 25th Anniversary Milestone at the 2025 Filipina Leadership Global Summit.

Nineteen extraordinary Filipina Women leaders from Australia, the Philippines, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States received the prestigious FWN Most Influential Filipina Woman in the World Award (Global FWN100™ Award). Now in its 16th year, the FWN Global FWN100™ Awards recognize Filipina women across four categories: Builder, Founder and Pioneer, Innovation and Thought Leader, and Policymaker and Visionary.

A panel of peers and awardees of previous years selected seven entrepreneurs, five doctors, three C-Suite officers, and four electeds/appointeds in government service.

The 2025 awardees were joined by FWN Board Members and the Executive Advisory Council, united under one mission: A Woman Leader in Every Sector of the Economy.

FWN Founder and CEO Marily Mondejar stepped into the light,

“Let me tell you what I see in this room. I see CEOs and entrepreneurs who control billions of dollars in economic power. I see elected officials and appointed leaders making policy decisions that affect millions. I see doctors, scientists, and researchers who are advancing human knowledge and saving lives.”

She paused, scanning the faces before her — women leaders from every continent, each one a force in her own right.

“This is not just a room full of accomplished women. This is a room full of nation-builders.”

A Legacy of Influence

The evening was the inaugural launch of the Hall of Fame: Always Influential Global FWN100™ Award. Dr. Maria Beebe, editor of the five DISRUPT Leadership Series documenting the journeys of 167 Filipina women authors from 16 countries was honored for her enduring leadership and commitment to amplifying Filipina women voices across the globe.

“When I began bringing together our leadership journeys, I wasn’t just collecting stories,” said Dr. Beebe. “I was listening to the heartbeat of a global sisterhood — 167 voices strong, across 16 countries — each one a spark of courage, resilience, and love for community.”

“My legacy is written not in numbers or awards, but in the hearts of every Filipina woman who dared to dream — and in the hands of those who continue to lead.”

2025 Most Influential Filipina Women in the World™

BUILDER: ARCHITECT OF CHANGE

This award goes to the Filipina woman who not only dreams of a better world but lays the foundation stone by stone, leading with heart, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth, and celebrating a Filipina woman leader who constructs bridges to the future with her remarkable organizational prowess. Recognized for her spirit and dedication to collaboration, driving measurable results, the Builder awardee reshapes the landscape of corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies.

A Builder is redefining the essence of leadership and leaving a lasting impact on her organization and community. 

  • Christine Catipon, PsyD, Staff Psychologist, Stanford University — Healthcare (USA)

  • Jacqueline Aquiler Ciron Angeles, MD, COO, Healthway FEU-NRMF Medical Center — Healthcare (Philippines)

  • Judy Patacsil, PsyD, Faculty Equity Coordinator (Ret.), Palomar College — Education (USA)

  • June Magallanes, MD, Executive Director, 777 Yosemite, LLC — Finance (USA)

  • Kristel Acacio, PhD, Founder & Principal Coach, Reverie Leadership Coaching — Consulting (USA)

  • Lourdes V. Moldre, Nurse Executive Patient Care Director, UCSF Health — Healthcare (USA)

  • Lourds Adalia-Evertse, Owner, Spice Grill — Food & Beverage (UAE)

  • Meredith Curry, MBA, Principal Consultant, AdvancED Consulting — Consulting (USA)

  • Shelene Atanacio, Global Real Estate Advisor, The Shelene Group Real Estate Team — Education (USA)

FOUNDER & PIONEER: THE GROUNDBREAKER

This award honors a Filipina woman who serves as the chief executive, president, executive director, or founder of a company, nonprofit, or business venture she helped launch, build, or significantly grow. An entrepreneur who has blazed new trails and groundbreaking ventures that reflect a commitment to innovation and growth.

This award recognizes those who harness resources, creativity, and technology, turning visions into reality and leading by example to inspire bold, innovative leadership.

  • Aya Garcia Shlachter, CEO, MGS Global LLC — Design (USA)

  • Jen Capones Tongco, Founder & CEO, Netrust Philippines Corporation — Science & Technology (Philippines)

  • Stephanie Reese, Singer, Actress & Philanthropist, Arts and Humanities Bainbridge — Entertainment (USA)

INNOVATOR & THOUGHT LEADER: pioneer of progress

This award honors the Filipina woman whose groundbreaking contributions have redefined industries and dares to think differently. From disrupting traditional business models to revolutionizing art, literature, and science, inspiring innovation and fostering advancements that change the way we live, and whose inventive spirit and visionary ideas have created waves of change, touching lives and shaping the future.

  • Estrella Parker, Chief People Officer, Cupertino Electric, Inc. — Construction (USA)

  • Gwendolyn Bamba Baquiran, Assistant Superintendent Student Services, San Benito County Office of Education — Education (USA)

  • Jelynn Malone, Chief Branding & Marketing Officer + Co-Founder, Mostra Coffee, Inc. — Retail & Consumer Goods (USA)

  • Lynne Lourdes N. Lucena, MD, Neurosurgeon, Bicol Regional Hospital & Medical Center — Healthcare (Philippines)

  • Mila Sprouse, EdD, Chief Nursing Officer (Regional), Providence Regional Medical Center — Healthcare (USA)

POLICYMAKER & VISIONARy: the strategist

This award honors the Filipina woman leader at the forefront of change whose strategic and business acumen have significantly influenced policy and innovation. She enriches her constituents’ lives by sharing her knowledge and experiences driving business, industry, and society progress. She is a leader whose foresight and decision-making sculpt a more prosperous and inclusive future. 

  • Dona Taguinod, Managing Director, ISA Australia Education & Migration Consultancy — Consulting (AUS)

  • Hon. Vilma Balle Caluag, Mayor, City Government of San Fernando, Pampanga — Government (Philippines)

KEEPERS OF THE FLAME

Sustaining Global Pinay Power is quite daunting. As the excitement dies down and the reality of executing FWN’s Vision sets in, many drop out, and others pick up the torch. The Keepers of the Flame are the caretakers who ensure the FWN Vision is kept alive.

This category is reserved for FWN Board Directors and Lifetime Awardees who have demonstrated long-term volunteer work for FWN.

  • Benel Se-Liban, Managing Partner, JBC Group — USA

  • Gina Atienza, Chair, SunStar Management Inc. — Philippines

  • Hon. Juslyn Manalo, Former Mayor & Councilmember, City of Daly City — USA

  • Lorna Patajo-Kapunan, Esq., Partner, Kapunan & Castillo Law Offices — Philippines

  • Marily Mondejar, Founder & CEO, Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network — USA

  • Marla De Castro Rausch, CEO & President, Animation Vertigo — USA

EXECUTIVE ADVISORY COUNCIL

  • Cora Tellez, Board Chair and Founder, Sterling Administration — USA

  • Natalie Garcia Lashinsky, Esq., Partner, Litigation & Business, Husch Blackwell LLP — USA

  • Susie Quesda, President, Ramar Foods — USA

Together, they embodied what Marily Mondejar had declared from the stage:

“We are 800 strong across 33 countries, and we’re just getting started.”

The lights dimmed. The applause echoed. And in that golden room, every Filipina woman leader knew — this was not the end of a summit, but the dawn of a new era of Pinay Power, the next 25 years. 

News Advisory: Viral Health Advocate and 22 International Authors Converge in San Francisco for Groundbreaking Leadership Event

NEWS ADVISORY: Facebook sensation Laarni San Juan, RN (U.S. FWN100™ 2007), to be named Northern California Ambassador as new book featuring immigrant women's triumph stories launches

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – A registered nurse whose candid documentation of her shingles battle captivated hundreds of thousands on Facebook will be officially appointed as the Filipina Women's Network Ambassador for Northern California at a high-profile leadership event featuring 22 accomplished authors from six countries.

Laarni San Juan, RN, MPH (U.S. FWN100™ 2007), gained national attention when her raw, honest posts about experiencing shingles went viral, sparking crucial conversations about women's health. Now a sought-after advocate who encourages Filipina women and anyone 50 years and older to talk to their providers about shingles symptoms and risks, San Juan will be formally recognized at DISRUPTing Northern California on Thursday, June 26.

The evening event at San Francisco's prestigious Yerba Buena Center for the Arts will simultaneously launch DISRUPT 5.0: Filipina Women Leading With Intersectionality, a powerful 526-page anthology featuring first and second-generation immigrant women who have shattered barriers across race, class, gender, poverty, violence, religion, and education.

"These aren't just success stories – they're survival stories that became triumph stories," said event organizer Sheilani Alix.

"From poverty to political office, from self-doubt to boardroom leadership, these 22 women from Canada, Japan, Philippines, Switzerland, the UK, and the US prove that our differences are our superpowers."

The anthology arrives at a pivotal moment when discussions about intersectionality and immigrant experiences dominate national discourse. Authors include leaders across law, healthcare, finance, government, consulting, and education who will be present for readings, panel discussions, and networking.

Media opportunities include:

  • Exclusive interviews with viral health advocate Laarni San Juan

  • Access to international authors with compelling immigrant success stories

  • Photo opportunities during the ambassadorial ceremony

  • Networking with prominent Filipina leaders across industries

  • The event promises authentic Filipino cuisine alongside substantive conversations about leadership, resilience, and community building in immigrant communities.

EVENT DETAILS:

What: DISRUPTing Northern California - Ambassador ceremony, book launch, author readings, and leadership networking

When: Thursday, June 26, 2025, 6:00-8:00 PM

Where: Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission Street, San Francisco

Registration: https://ffwn.org/event-6200138 ($35 members, $45 guests - includes book)

Media Contact: Isabelle Santiago

Foundation for Filipina Women's Network

Phone: +1 415.610.6637

Email: filipina@ffwn.org

Visual Assets: https://bit.ly/4jvJovS

About the Foundation for Filipina Women's Network

The Foundation for Filipina Women's Network empowers Filipina women through leadership development, professional networking, and community building across the United States and internationally.

News advisory: Cebu (June 10) and Manila (June 18)

NEWS ADVISORY: Filipina Women Leaders Defy Global DEI Backlash with Historic Unity Events

WHAT: As major corporations retreat from diversity initiatives, the Foundation for Filipina Women's Network (FWN) hosts two defiant gatherings showcasing why intersectional leadership matters more than ever. Events feature ambassador appointments, launch of "DISRUPT 5.0: Filipina Women Leading With Intersectionality," and high-profile government speakers.

WHY IT MATTERS NOW:

  • Counter-narrative to US anti-DEI movement affecting Google, Meta, McDonald's

  • 22 authors from 6 countries prove intersectionality drives innovation

  • Filipina model offers blueprint for global women's leadership during backlash

  • 526-page anthology demonstrates economic value of inclusive leadership

CEBU EVENT - "DISRUPTing Cebu"

  • WHO: Dame Mariquita Yeung (FWN Ambassador appointee for Cebu), Gov. Pamela Baricuatro, Justice Geraldine Faith Econg (Keynote)

  • WHEN: Tuesday, June 10, 2025, 3:00-6:00 PM

  • WHERE: Radisson Blu Hotel, Cebu

  • FORMAT: Afternoon Tea, ambassadorial ceremony, book launch, intersectional leadership discussions

FEATURED AUTHORS & READERS:

Cebu Highlights:

  • Marily Mondejar (from San Francisco, California) - FWN Founder & CEO, "Filipina Women Leaders: Disrupting Stereotypes"

  • Gina Garcia Atienza - SunStar Publishing Chairman, "When the New Year Comes in October"

  • Janette Nellie Chiu - Nutrivalue Technologies Inc. President, “Innovator by Happenstance”

  • Maria Santos Greaves (from Vancouver, Canada) - Surrey Hearing Care Owner, "Find Ability in Disability"

  • Melanie Ng - Ng Khai Development Corporation, Executive Vice President, reading “Charina Amunategui: I AM ENOUGH”

  • Marylou Ngo Ang - Owner, Magna CMGN Solutions, reading “Rohanee Zapanta: Identity, Law & Justice”

  • Dame Mariquita Yeung - MSY Foundation, reading "Angelica Berrie: Becoming Ruth: A Transformational Journey"

MANILA EVENT - "DISRUPTing Manila"

  • WHO: Rosemarie Rafael (FWN Ambassador appointee for Manila), Senator Risa Hontiveros (Keynote)

  • WHEN: Wednesday, June 18, 2025, 9:30 AM-12:30 PM

  • WHERE: Umu, Dusit Thani Hotel, Manila

  • FORMAT: Executive Brunch, ambassadorial ceremony, book launch, resistance leadership dialogues

Manila Powerhouses:

  • Lorna Kapunan, Esq. – Women’s Advocate, "Been There -- Done That!"

  • Rosemarie Rafael - Airspeed Chairperson, "Lead Like the Bamboo"

  • Regina Berba, MD - UP Physician, "People Giving Hope: Ten PGH Champions during COVID-19"

  • Nora Kakilala Terrado – former USEC, Department of Trade and Industry, Carelon Global Founder, "Fifty Years of Pivots and Synergies"

  • Marla de Castro Rausch - Animation Vertigo CEO, Navigating Dual Worlds: A Filipina Leader’s Journey of Resilience and Creativity

Senator Risa Hontiveros' keynote at the Manila event represents the pinnacle of political validation for the FWN movement. As one of the Philippines' most influential senators and a consistent champion of women's rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and social justice, she embodies intersectional leadership in action.

STORY ANGLES:

  • How Filipina leaders respond to global DEI rollbacks

  • Intersectionality as economic advantage, not political liability

  • Government leaders championing inclusive leadership

  • International network building during divisive times

  • Success stories proving diversity drives innovation

  • Author spotlights from logistics, law, healthcare, education, media industries

AVAILABILITY:

  • Ambassador interviews available

  • DISRUPT 5.0 advance copies for review

  • Government speaker availability (limited)

  • Author spotlights from 6 countries

  • Behind-the-scenes access to event preparation

REGISTRATION:

  • Cebu: https://ffwn.org/event-6184002

  • Manila: https://ffwn.org/event-6188880

  • Investment: $35 Members (₱1,945)  / $45 Guests (₱2,500) (includes book)

MEDIA CONTACT:
Isabelle Santiago
Foundation for Filipina Women's Network
Phone: +1 415.610.6637 | Email: filipina@ffwn.org

VISUAL ASSETS:

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

-

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.

RESOLVE YOUR AUDITION SLOT

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

NOMINATE TODAY

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)