For International Women's Day, we honor Filipina women that serve as inspiration to countless Filipinas throughout the world.
The 20th century saw some of the most inspiring Filipina women who left an unforgettable mark in the history of the Philippines. They were brave, determined and committed to the cause they believed in and fought for. From sports to music, arts and politics, the following are the five remarkable Filipino women who made a lasting impact on their country and the world at large.
- Corazon Aquino – Aquino served as the 11th President of the Philippines from 1986 to 1992 and is widely known for leading the People Power Revolution. She was also the first female president in Asia. Throughout her presidency and beyond, she remained an iconic figure for democracy in the Philippines.
- Jovita Fuentes – A composer and musician, Fuentes was a pioneer in the development of contemporary Filipino music. She was the first Filipino to write a full-length opera, Ang Pista ng Bayan and was instrumental in popularizing Filipino music in the early 20th century. Because of the influence, then President Diosdado Macapagal, signed Republic Act 3630 which appropriated ₱900,000 a year as part of the government's support to music promotion, specifically maintaining a Filipino symphony orchestra.
- Rosa Sevilla de Alvero – A feminist and political campaigner, de Alvero was one of the foremost advocates for girls’ education in the Philippines. She was the first female Dean of the University of Santo Tomas and established the Instituto de Mujeres which is now known as the Rosa Sevilla Memorial School when she was 21 years old. During her mid-30s, she campaigned for Filipino women to be allowed to vote and founded the Liga Nacional de Damas Filipinas.
- Lydia De Vega – De Vega is considered one of the greatest athletes in Philippine sports history. She specialized in track and field events, winning numerous gold medals in international competitions and setting several Philippine records. She was a 2 time Olympian.
- Gabriela Silang – A revolutionary and freedom fighter, Silang is still regarded as an icon of the nation’s struggle for independence. She led a rebellion against the Spanish colonial government after the death of her husband and is remembered as a symbol of courage and defiance. She was given the nickname, La Generala by her fellow revolutionaries.
These Filipina women have all made remarkable contributions to the Philippines and the world. They serve as an inspiration to future generations of Filipinas, demonstrating that anything is possible if you have the courage and determination to pursue it.
Today, on International Women's Day, we want all women to know that you are amazing in everything you do!