Every March, we come together to celebrate National Women’s Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the incredible achievements of women across various fields, raising awareness about the challenges they continue to face, and advocating for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Every time I hear Women’s Month, I can’t help but think of the film Little Women, written and directed by Greta Gerwig, where one of the characters delivers a powerful line:
“Women, they have minds, and they have souls, as well as just hearts. And they’ve got ambition, and they’ve got talent, as well as just beauty. I’m so sick of people saying that love is all a woman is fit for.”
This quote resonates deeply because it challenges outdated notions of what women are capable of. We cannot deny that stereotypes about women still linger in our society today. However, this is a powerful reminder that women are more than just their roles in relationships—they are thinkers, dreamers, creators, and leaders, shaping the world with their ambition and talent.
March is a powerful reminder to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and take meaningful action toward gender parity. It is an opportunity to amplify women’s voices, champion their rights, and foster an environment where every woman and girl has the freedom to pursue her dreams without limitations. By celebrating the successes of trailblazing women, addressing persistent inequalities, and pushing for progress, we pave the way for a future where gender equality is not just an ideal but a reality.
That is why I am honored that on March 6, 2025, at the Mayuree Ballroom of Dusit Thani Manila, the Women’s Business Council Philippines, Inc. will hold a special event to celebrate every woman. This gathering will recognize the remarkable achievements of women in business and leadership and serve as a platform to inspire, empower, and uplift one another.
Hosted by Boy Abunda, this event will have special guests like the former Vice President and Chair of Angat Buhay Foundation Atty. Leni Robredo and Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Hon. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque.
The event will discuss different topics with different personalities sharing their experience and knowledge with the audience. This includes:
Sustainability Panel: Join industry leaders Angeline Tham of Angkas, Anna Lagon of Bayo, Katherine Custodio of WWF, and Roberta Lopez-Feliciano of ABS-CBN Foundation as they discuss sustainable practices and the significant role women play in fostering environmental stewardship, moderated by Salve Duplito.
Filipina Powerhouses: Celebrate the achievements of remarkable women leaders, including Robina Gokongwei-Pe of Gokongwei Group, Myrna T. Yao of Richwell and the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), and Lorelie Osial of Shell Pilipinas, who will share their insights and experiences in breaking barriers and driving success.
Male Champions: Key male allies, including JV De Dios of Manila Water, Hans “Chico” Sy Jr. of SM, and Al Panlilio of PLDT, will discuss the importance of male participation in advancing gender equality and supporting women in the workplace.
Navigating DEl: a vibrant discussion with trailblazers Ice Seguerra, Tessa Prieto, and Angie King as they explore the evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion and offer strategies for creating more inclusive environments.
Keynote Speech: Jessica Soto, co-founder of Las Mujeres Lideres in Peru, will deliver a compelling keynote address on creating spaces for empowerment, drawing from her experiences in advocating for women’s rights and leadership in Latin America.
As a fitting conclusion to this empowering gathering, the Women’s Business Council Philippines will host its inaugural “Babae Awards,” recognizing outstanding women leaders in various fields. Hosted by the beloved Mr. Boy Abunda, the Babae Awards will honor those who have shown unwavering commitment to advocacy and service, demonstrating exemplary leadership that drives positive change, inspires empowerment, and contributes to nation-building.
As the Vice President of the Women’s Business Council Philippines (WomenBiz) and the Event Chairperson, I feel deeply honored to spearhead this gathering of dynamic women shaping the new economy. The Unstoppable Filipina Summit celebrates this spirit—one that refuses to be confined by limitations or outdated norms.
As a Filipina, a leader, and a mother, I want this event to remind us that when women rise, we all rise. Here’s to the Unstoppable Filipinas—today, tomorrow, and beyond.
