Philippine Women's College of Davao Faces Stagnancy Amid Corporate Disputes
The Philippine Women's College of Davao has long been a cornerstone of academic excellence in the city, producing notable alumni such as Vice President Sara Duterte, Dubai-based fashion designer Popoy Barba, and 2023 Datu Bago awardee Brenda Z. Barba. However, in recent years, the institution's development has stagnated due to intense intra-corporate disputes between two groups, each claiming legitimate authority over the college.
Roots of the Conflict
The conflict centers on competing claims to the Board of Trustees. In Case No: R-DVO-23-02238-CV, Emmanuel Canivel, the court-proclaimed president of PWC, and the institution alleged that defendants, including Elizabeth Lietz and Mary Jude Icasiano, filed a falsified General Information Sheet with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 18, 2023. This document falsely represented them as legitimate trustees, leading to unauthorized attempts to change bank signatories and freezing of accounts, which delayed employee salary payments and sparked protests.
Canivel argued that the defendants' meeting on February 18, 2023, was void due to lack of notice and quorum, violating PWC's by-laws. In contrast, a meeting called by Canivel's group on the same date complied with regulations, electing new officers including Dr. Lualhati G. Trias as Chairperson and Canivel as President. The financial fallout was severe, with unauthorized transactions discovered in April 2023, prompting the court to establish an Interim Management Committee on May 24, 2023, to oversee operations and prevent further damage.
Court Rulings and Legal Battles
In a detailed 29-page decision, the court ruled that Canivel was validly elected as a member and trustee of PWC, citing compliance with by-laws that require nomination and majority vote. The court declared the defendants' meeting and GIS filing null and void, emphasizing that their actions did not adhere to procedural requirements. Additionally, a quo warranto case filed by Lietz and Icasiano against Canivel and others was dismissed, as the court found insufficient evidence to disqualify board members based on residency or educational claims.
The court acknowledged that some 2022 meetings were invalid due to procedural issues but deemed challenges to Canivel's presidency moot after his resignation and re-election on February 18, 2023. This ruling reinforced his legitimacy, though the institution continues to face administrative and financial transparency issues.
Impact on the Institution
The disputes have hampered PWC's growth, causing operational delays and employee unrest. With accounts frozen and salaries unpaid at times, the college's ability to function smoothly has been compromised. The Interim Management Committee, while a temporary solution, highlights the ongoing need for stable leadership and clear governance. As PWC navigates these challenges, its legacy of producing influential graduates remains at risk, underscoring the urgency for resolution and renewed focus on academic excellence.
