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Golden Year, Golden Achievements:
PCW’s Golden Era of Public Service and Beyond





The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) has traveled a long and remarkable journey in its five decades of public service. Along the way, we navigated  the rocky roads of advocating  for women’s rights legislations, faced the crossroads and highways of diverse  issues affecting various  women’s sectors, braved the tidal waves of persistent gender stereotypes and social norms, and ventured into the wilderness of emerging gender-related concerns in the digital epoch. The breathtaking hike towards greater heights to  reach the summit of gender equality and women empowerment (GEWE) has been challenging and rewarding, and remains ongoing. Through it all, PCW’s  passion and commitment to achieving GEWE remain steadfast, like  a raging river breaking down barriers. Equipped with flexibility and grit, PCW is unstoppable in overcoming any challenge.


This golden milestone of the national entity for gender equality and women empowerment would not have been possible without its most valuable  treasure—its people. PCW’s dedicated GADvocates, shaped  by adversity, shine brightly  as beacons of guidance for those who rely on its service. Alongside countless partners – including national government agencies (NGAs), local government units (LGUs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and civil society organizations (CSOs), the people of the Commission have been  instrumental in positioning  the Philippines as a leading nation in Asia in its approaches to gender mainstreaming and closing the gender gap.


In celebration  of its 50th anniversary, PCW honors  the invaluable contributions of its personnel, the driving force behind the Commission’s achievements in promoting gender equality. Awardees from each division proved that every role, no matter how distinct, is vital in producing  impactful, results-driven outputs. Like a   body, where every  part is  essential  and purposely designed, PCW thrives on the synergy of its workforce.






The PCW  is composed of the following divisions and delivery units: Administrative and Finance Division (AFD), the Corporate Affairs and Information Resource Management Division (CAIRMD), the Policy Development, Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Division (PDPMED), the Sectoral Coordination Division (SCD), the Technical Services and Regional Coordination Division (TSRCD), Office of the Chairperson (OC), and the Office of the Executive Director (OED) which oversees the Inter-Agency Council on Violence Against Women (IACVAWC) Secretariat and the North Mindanao Field Office. Together, these divisions and delivery units  work as a powerhouse  to fulfill PCW’s mandates as the primary policy making and coordinating body on women and gender equality concerns. As a catalyst for gender mainstreaming, an authority on women’s issues, and the lead advocate for women’s empowerment, gender equity, and gender equality in the country, PCW continues to shape the nation’s path toward a more equitable and inclusive future.



Gold mining: PCW Enhanced RAISE on a mission

To recognize and reward its officials and staff for their exceptional performance, significant accomplishments, admirable conduct, personal efforts, and extraordinary dedication to public service, the Commission created the PCW Employee Recognition Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (E-RAISE), now referred to as the Enhanced RAISE. This program honors high-achieving personnel with performance incentives, honor awards, national accolades, loyalty recognitions, educational grants, special awards, and others. ERAISE adheres to the revised regulations concerning Employee Suggestions and Incentive Awards Systems (ESIAS) specified in Civil Service Commission Book V of Executive Order 292 and its Omnibus Rules.


Executive Director Atty. Khay Ann C. Magundayao-Borlado, Officer-in-Charge Deputy Executive Director for Operations Nharleen Santos-Millar, and Officer-in-Charge Deputy Executive Director for Management Services and PCW Enhanced Recognition Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (RAISE) Chairperson Honey M. Castro presented the loyalty, educational, and special awards to the brilliant personnel and employees who are steadfast in delivering excellent public service.





“Today, RAISE has become a testament of our commitment to fostering a culture of appreciation and dedication to service excellence,” OIC Deputy Executive Director Honey Castro proudly said during her opening and inspirational message as the Chairperson of the award-giving committee. Having been with the Commission for over two decades, she observed how the PCW management and staff, through the Employees Association, negotiated and intentionally decided to realign the program, even expanding the scope of special awards to include Contract of Service personnel. Like miners, the committee’s perseverance continues to unearth the gold within every PCW staff member, through their innovative framework in nomination guidelines and selection process.

In their golden glory: PCW bestows ‘gold medal’ to loyalty awardees

In its efforts to consistently inspire its officials and employees while offering opportunities for them to participate in actions and conduct that will greatly assist the agency in reaching its objectives, PCW hosts an annual awards ceremony to honor staff members who have demonstrated loyalty, commitment, dedication, and exemplary service.


For the loyalty awards this year, the Women’s Commission honored two employees for their individual years of service in government.




10-Year Service Award – Lisa R. Ramirez (AFD)




25-Year Service Award – Clehenia Aurora B. San Juan (PDPMED)

Education is as valuable as gold: PCW staff with academic achievements

The Sariling Paglilinang ng Kaalaman Award is awarded to two employees who completed their academic degrees without availing of study leave, funding, or scholarship assistance from the government.




  • Maricel G. Napuli (AFD) for completing her Master in Management, Major in Public Administration degree
  • Cherry Ann T. Bulado (AFD) for completing her Master of Business Administration degree with honors

Turning glitters into gold: Crowning moment for special awardees

Additionally, PCW granted special awards to individuals and teams for their outstanding performance and conduct, covering various categories established by the agency’s Enhanced RAISE committee and aligned with PCW’s Enhanced RAISE Policy as endorsed by the Civil Service Commission. This is part of the agency’s initiatives to foster a workplace that is characterized by respect, dignity, and opportunities for everyone, irrespective of gender and job status.


The Commission honored two teams and eight individuals as special award recipients.



Attitude is Everything Award


Known as the Best in Conduct Award, this accolade is presented to PCW staff who demonstrate proper etiquette and appropriate behavior, are willing to extend assistance even in challenging situations, and have maintained an optimistic attitude that is reflected in their demeanor and interactions with others. This was awarded to two employees:

  • Plantilla Employee: Caryl Joyce G. Gatapia of the PDPMED
  • Contract of Service Personnel: Michael John S. Cabadsan of the AFD


Certificate of Commendation


The award recognizes PCW employees and personnel who achieved at least an average rating of 4.90 or outstanding performance during the 2nd Semester of 2023 and the 1st Semester of 2024. Their contribution significantly advanced the attainment of their delivery unit’s performance targets, setting a high standard for excellence in the workplace and exemplifying dedicated public service that is worthy of emulation by peers and colleagues.




  • Christian Renie V. Ibana (CAIRMD)
  • Richard A. Bienes (CAIRMD)
  • James Paolo A. Bagasina (CAIRMD)
  • Virginia Q. Acuña (AFD)
  • Shiekah P. Sandigan (CAIRMD)
  • Oliver R. Oliveros (AFD)
  • Roberto R. Gajelomo Jr. (CAIRMD)


Good Office Management Hall of Fame Award




Awarded to Accounting Section for prioritizing good housekeeping and resource conservation through efficient utilization of office resources. This is a testament to the Accounting Section’s unwavering commitment to environmental and government resources stewardship, as evidenced by earning the Good Office Management Award three times, in 2019, 2022, and 2023.



Most Active Employee Award




Conferred to Kim Harold T. Peji of the TSRCD for his dedication and dynamic participation in various inter-office committees, where he consistently contributed valuable insights to discussions and decision-making processes. His proactive leadership in organizing and spearheading major activities within and outside his division fostered a culture of collaboration and productivity in the workplace.



COS Personnel of the Year Award




Bestowed upon Michael John S. Cabadsan of the AFD for demonstrating exceptional initiative, effort, commitment, and collaboration as Payroll Officer, consistently performing his duties and responsibilities beyond what is expected and required.



Most Promising Employee of the Year Award




Awarded to Neil Ryann P. Rodil of the SCD for demonstrating commitment, creativity, and exceptional work performance, highlighting exemplary work ethic, problem-solving abilities, innovation, and leadership qualities. His efforts have significantly advanced the pursuit of knowledge and greatly contributed to the Commission’s objectives, particularly in  the improved enforcement of PCW policies and initiatives related to women, peace, and security.



Gender Catalyst Award


Awarded by Chairperson Ermelita Valdeavilla and Executive Director Atty. Khay Ann Magundayao-Borlado, this award was bestowed upon a person or group for their input of an idea/suggestion that led to increased gender-responsiveness in work processes, or enhancement of systems, procedures, policies, and programs in PCW benefiting stakeholders directly.




  • Individual Category: Awarded to Honey M. Castro, the OIC Deputy Director for Management Services for remarkably elevating PCW’s public information and advocacy initiatives. Through her commitment, she has maintained the successful execution of the Tinig ng Kababaihan (TNK) Radio Program, amplifying women’s voices and advancing gender equality. Her creative efforts have further strengthened PCW’s national advocacy campaigns by boosting its social media presence, fostering interactive activities, and building meaningful relationships at both the national and local scales, ensuring that the message of empowerment reaches communities across the nation.



  • Team Category: Awarded to the Sectoral Coordination Division for demonstrating outstanding leadership and creativity in organizing the inaugural International Conference on Women, Peace, and Security, which significantly advanced global dialogues on peace, security, and gender equality. They are also recognized for their vital contribution to the completion of the Harmonized Gender and Development (GAD) Guidelines Checklist for the Education Sector, ensuring the integration of gender perspectives in educational policies, programs and activities. Additionally, their efforts in fostering partnerships with key implementing agencies in the environment, disaster risk reduction, and agriculture, fisheries, and forestry sectors have yielded a positive impact on both internal and external stakeholder


Exemplary Behavior of the Year Award



Awarded to Ma. Rebecca Rafaela R. Baylosis of PDPMED for consistently exemplifying the PCW core values of passion for excellence, professionalism, integrity, teamwork, and accountability. She has demonstrated exceptional skill, outstanding work performance, and dedicated public service while serving as a model of good conduct for superiors, colleagues, and subordinates.



Extra Mile Hall of Fame Award



The Extra Mile Award honors individuals who go above and beyond, demonstrating exemptional initiative, teamwork, and a commitment to exceeding expectations. This prestigious recognition was awarded to Virginia Q. Acuña’s of the AFD for her exemplary dedication and work ethic, as evidenced by her earning the Extra Mile Award three times – in 2015, 2016, and 2022.



Most Outstanding PCW Employee Award




Conferred to Mary Gladys A. Esquibal of the CAIRMD for achieving the highest overall performance rating for two consecutive rating periods, with ratings of 4.986 in the 2nd Semester 2023, and 4.976 in the 1st Semester 2024.



Most Outstanding PCW Team Award




This esteemed recognition was awarded to the Technical Services and Regional Coordination Division’s for its commitment to excellence and consistent demonstration of exceptional performance. With outstanding ratings of 4.96 in the 2nd Semester 2023, and 4.90 in 1st Semester 2024 division-level performance evaluations, the TSRCD consistently exceeds targets, significantly contributing to the attainment of agency performance goals and enhancing the quality of public service delivered by the PCW.



Gawad ng Direktor Award




Given to Vicky T. Atanacio of the CAIRMD in recognition of her steadfast commitment to the PCW, consistently outstanding performance, and character distinguished by integrity and grace. She has shown exemptional initiative and leadership through her effective management as Officer-in-Charge of the CAIRMD, enabling the Commission to effectively communicate its initiatives and accomplishments to the public, thereby advancing its goals and objectives.



Gawad ng Empleyado Award



In part of the Enhanced RAISE recognition ceremonies of PCW, the Employees Association (PCW-EA), the sole and exclusive negotiating agent for all PCW employees, also presents the Gawad ng Empleyado Award to a member of the Management Committee. This award recognizes their efforts in advocating for, safeguarding, honoring, and upholding the labor rights, employment, and welfare of all PCW employees.




This year, the PCW-EA conferred the Gawad ng Empleyado Award to outgoing Executive Director Atty. Khay Ann C. Magundayao Borlado, in recognition of her steadfast dedication to the mission, vision and core values of the PCW. She has demonstrated devoted service and commitment to her responsibilities while consistently fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace that upholds respect, integrity, inherent value, and dignity of every PCW employee. Through her inspiring leadership, she has motivated others to achieve their highest potential, enhancing their well-being while exemplifying the principles of GEWE. She is embracing another milestone in her career effective 15 February 2025 and will be replaced as officer-in-chare by Nharleen Santos-Millar, incumbent Chief of the TSRCD.



Dr. Leticia Perez De Guzman Award




The golden year introduced a brand-new award in honor of Dr. Leticia Perez De Guzman, the first executive director of the  National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women, the antecedent of PCW.  With 50 years of service  to the Commission, this prestigious recognition was conferred to Eufrosino O. Dumlao, IACVAWC Secretariat Team Leader, for consistently embodying the principles of integrity, commitment to the well-being of everybody, excellence, decency, and faith in the Almighty –  values that  are among the most cherished legacies of Dr. Leticia Perez-de Guzman. Through these virtues, the recipient has contributed to making these values an enduring experience for the personnel of the Commission.



Go for the Gold: A Future Where All Women Shine Brightly




“These awards are a celebration of the contributions and marks that we, as a Commission, are making within the circles of GAD advocates and in the lives of those we serve. It is not just an award, we should always be reminded of the responsibility that this also entails, and the challenge to keep moving forward,” Chief Administrative Officer Ma. Rebecca Rafaela R. Baylosis said, reflecting on the path ahead beyond the golden year. She emphasized that fostering the well-being of staff and employees while creating a positive work environment will remain a priority. The Human Resource Management and Development Section will focus on improving work-life balance, and in collaboration with the Enhanced RAISE Committee. They will develop new nomination and selection frameworks to ensure inclusivity for all staff members across various divisions and delivery units, each contributing to the Commission’s overall mission.




PCW Chairperson Ermelita V. Valdeavilla echoed this sentiment, affirming work-life balance as the internal flagship program of the Commission during her term. “The real winner, or the real awardee of what you have witnessed is the PCW. You are the trophies of the Commission and it is your responsibility to keep these trophies clean, shining and serving its function of giving glory to the women we work for,” she said. She encouraged all PCW staff to invest in their skills and talents so they can turn the Commission’s vision into reality – a future where every Filipino woman can flourish and reach her full potential. 


In support of the work-life balance advocacy, Executive Director Atty. Khay Ann C. Magundayao-Borlado urged all PCW employees and personnel to prioritize their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.


In announcing her imminent departure from the Commission, she expressed her gratitude to the PCW Management Committee and all her colleagues for believing in her potential as a leader. “The foundation of excellence and dedication that you have built together will ensure that your vital work continues to make a significant impact on the lives of women and girls across the Philippines,” she added. She assured that she will continue to advocate for women and girls’ rights as she transitions to practicing law in the private sector.


PCW was established as the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women (NCRFW) through Presidential Decree No. 633 on January 7, 1975, to serve as an advisory entity for the President and the Cabinet on policies and initiatives aimed at promoting women’s advancement. Following the passage of the Magna Carta of Women in 2009, it was renamed as the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW). The Commission commenced its 50th anniversary celebration with the theme, “50 Years of Empowerment: PCW Leading Progress, Championing Women, and Weaving a Brighter Future for Bagong Pilipinas” on January 07, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. The Enhanced RAISE Awarding Ceremony was held at Hive Hotel and Convention Place on January 22, 2025, coinciding in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Year-End Performance Assessment (YEPA) and Indicative FY 2026 Work and Financial Planning.


Reaching the 50th year is a moment of celebration, but it also comes with the responsibility of continuing to move forward toward an inclusive society where gender equality is a lived reality. The journey is far from over, and we are committed to it, just as we have been  since 1975. While there have been milestones achieved, we remain focused on the challenges ahead. To this day, young girls still fall victim to child marriages, mothers lack opportunities to grow their business or balance care work and their professional responsibilities, and boys are still taught social norms and gender stereotypes that may lead to a violent behavior towards women later on. The list goes on, and there are countless issues yet to be addressed before we reach the end goal — a future where no one is left behind. 


It has been a long journey, but there’s still much further to go. We have traveled rocky roads, busy crossroads and highways, faced majestic seas with crashing tidal waves, ventured through vast wilderness, and scaled mountains of challenges. While the destination remains far ahead, the recognition of our individual and collaborative efforts will drive us forward.  In the cave, we found gold, but the emerald, diamond, platinum, and beyond still awaits us in the future – along with the people who are the true treasure of the Commission.