Honoring Cebu's Women Achievers: A Legacy of Vision and Fortitude
This article is the second installment in a series dedicated to honoring "Women Achievers," focusing on the profound impact of women in shaping society. The role of women in history has consistently reflected vision and fortitude, with academic curricula increasingly deepening the understanding of womanhood as mothers, educators, and community leaders.
Empowered Women in Cebu: Organizations and Leadership
The women of the Zonta Club of Cebu 1 exemplify empowerment, alongside notable achievers such as Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro in government service and Ria Espina in the legal profession and academe at the University of Cebu. In various leadership surveys conducted by the author, students often describe women leaders by highlighting their contributions to Philippine history, emphasizing their versatility and endurance in roles as mothers, mentors, and civic leaders.
Active Women's Organizations and Their Contributions
In Cebu, several women's organizations have long been active, including the Zonta Clubs, Quota International, Women in Travel, the Hotel and Restaurant Association, and Forward, among others. These groups have provided significant assistance through scholarships, vocational training, and community-based entrepreneurship programs, fostering development and empowerment.
Expanding Roles in Child Welfare and International Linkages
Over the years, more women leaders have become deeply involved in child welfare, family development projects, and partnerships with business and government agencies, even extending to international linkages. This expansion showcases their growing influence and commitment to societal progress.
Personal Reflections on Influential Women Leaders
"In My Diary" recalls a number of women leaders who touched the author's life after moving to Cebu in 1964. Among them were:
- Dr. Lourdes Quisumbing, then secretary of the Department of Education.
- Dr. Alice Tan, then dean of the Graduate School at the University of San Carlos and the author's dissertation adviser.
- Dr. Lucilla Bonilla, then a faculty member and later dean of education at the University of San Jose-Recoletos.
- Atty. Alice Bathan, then dean of the College of Law at the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R).
The author also remembers Dr. Anita Sanchez, Beling Go Ching Hai, Amparo Rodil, and Dr. Vicky Gabison, who partnered in many seminars sponsored by Norberto Quisumbing.
Friendships and Mentorships in Women's Circles
The author treasures friendships with Zontian leaders such as Stella Bernabe, Melita Go, Tess Chan, Nellie Chiu, Flor Streegan, and Matt Baguia, among others. Nelia Neri, who used to teach at USJ-R, encouraged the author to become a columnist for SunStar Cebu, leading to the creation of "In My Diary." Writing has always been one of the author's strengths, dating back to college years as editor of the Journal of Education at the University of Santo Tomas.
Ongoing Contributions and Inspirations
The WeCare family and peers from USJ-R Arts and Sciences have provided strength and inspiration. Many women leaders in Cebu continue to share their skills and resources with various communities. For instance, then Cebu governor Gwen Garcia and tourism head Dawnie Roa introduced the author to the East Asian Tourism Forum, while Beling Go Ching Hai served as a mentor in environmental projects.
This tribute to Cebu's women achievers highlights their enduring legacy and ongoing contributions to society, with more to be continued in future installments.
