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IN PHOTOS: 50 Years of PCW Leading Progress, Championing Women, and Weaving a Brighter Future for Bagong Pilipinas





On January 7, 2025, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW)—Asia’s first national women’s machinery—marked another milestone: its 50th anniversary of advancing the rights of Filipino women and charting a pathway toward their empowerment and equality with men.


In a statement released to the press on that herstoric day, the PCW (formerly National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women) compared its journey to that of miners diligently searching for gold over the past five decades.


“Our journey has been defined by unwavering dedication, resilience, and perseverance through challenges and triumphs. We have navigated through global pandemics, legislative reforms, and deep-rooted social barriers. Yet, like miners who are persistently uncovering treasures beneath layers of rock, PCW has worked hand in hand with countless partners—non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations, and advocates—breaking down the inequities that have long hindered women’s progress.”


The heartwarming celebration at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City was both a nostalgic trip down memory lane and a fearless path to the future as it reaffirmed PCW’s  commitment to overcoming the persistent challenges in achieving  gender equality and women empowerment.



A Toast to the Treasures Unearthed





“The treasures we have unearthed  are undeniable: the courage, leadership, and boundless potential  of Filipino women  to create  a brighter future,” the PCW proclaimed.





To showcase these golden treasures, the Commission unveiled a herstory exhibit outside the event hall, featuring the outstanding progress achieved for the past five decades and enticing onlookers to join in the advocacy.





Inside the event hall, the program began with a moment of interfaith reflection and prayer shared by Fr. Edison D. Escario, Rev. Maritez Cruz, and Bashier Ampatua. This was shortly followed by a ceremonial toast led by Assistant Secretary Lilian De Leon of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to officially kick off the PCW’s yearlong anniversary celebration. She stood in for DILG Secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla. 





A Tribute to Women and their Worth


“Looking back at the past five decades, we have witnessed remarkable progress in advancing women’s rights and gender equality in the Philippines. From legal reforms to social awareness campaigns, we have shattered glass ceilings, challenged stereotypes, and created opportunities for women to thrive in all spheres of life. But, our journey is far from over,” PCW Executive Director Atty. Khay Ann C. Magundayao-Borlado said in her speech.


To encapsulate its 50-year journey, a video chronicling the Commission’s herstory was presented. It powerfully retold the strides made by the PCW in advancing the status of women in the Philippines and added a personal touch by inviting all to keep pushing forward in the pursuit of gender equality, emphasizing the fact that the advocacy is one story of one nation and one people.





A Sharing of Insights on Advancing Women’s Rights


In the spirit of inclusivity, experts from different fields also engaged in an inspiring panel discussion on “Advancing Women’s Rights and Gender Equality in the Philippines” moderated by Ma. Rosalyn “Lenlen” Mesina, Country Programme Coordinator of the UN Women. 


Prior to the conversation, Ms. Mesina encouraged the audience to thank their seatmates for the work that they are doing to promote gender equality and women empowerment. 


“Things will not happen if not for the work that you all are doing from the past—how many years have you been part of this work—and I hope that we continuously commit to doing this work together beyond the 50 years,” she stated.


Speakers who shared their insights are the following: 

  • Police Brigadier General (PBGen) Portia B. Manalad – the first female police general from the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) and the Head of PNP Women and Children’s Protection Center (WCPC); 
  • Lorna B. Mandin – a member of the National GAD Resource Pool of the PCW and the Head of the Integrated Gender and Development Division of the City Mayor’s Office of Davao City;
  • Bernadette B. Delos Santos – a farmer, artist, environmentalist, guru, social entrepreneur, and popularly known as BidiBidi;
  • Noreen Boots Gragasin – Director IV and Head of the Integrated Records Management Office at the Civil Service Commission (CSC); and
  • Donald Amado Caballero – Legislative Committee Secretary on Science and Technology and one of the founding convenors and now Vice President of MOVE Philippines. 



A Salute to the Shapers of the Movement


“As we commemorate the 50th founding anniversary of the Philippine Commission on Women, we pause to reflect on the golden milestones achieved in our collective pursuit of gender equality and women’s empowerment,” the PCW said in its anniversary message.


These milestones underscore the acknowledgment of Filipino women’s invaluable contributions, as seen in the roster of women leaders who have shaped the Commission’s herstory and played a pivotal role in setting a strong foundation for the PCW and transforming it into the powerful force that it is today. 



As a tribute, the PCW Commissioners and Management Committee headed by Chairperson Ermelita V. Valdeavilla and Atty. Borlado personally bestowed plaques of recognition and appreciation upon the following former Chairpersons:


  • Former Senator Leticia Ramos-Shahani (1986–1987) 
  • Imelda M. Nicolas (1992–1998) 
  • Dr. Amelou Benitez-Reyes (1998–2001) 
  • Professor Aurora Javate-De Dios (2001–2004) 
  • Myrna T. Yao (2004–2010) 
  • Remedios Ignacio-Rikken (2010–2016) 
  • Dr. Rhodora Masilang-Bucoy (2016–2020) 
  • Sandra Sanchez-Montano (2020–2022) 

Representatives of former Senator Shahani, Dr. Reyes, Ms. Nicolas, and Ms. Rikken graced the event with their presence to accept their respective awards. However, PCW deeply regrets the absence of its first Chairperson, former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos (1975–1986), as well as Dr. Patricia B. Licuanan (Chairperson, 1987–1992).


“We stand on the shoulders of giants, of visionary leaders who laid the foundation for the PCW we know today. To our former chairpersons and executive directors, your unwavering commitment paved the way for the progress we enjoy now. We honor your legacy and vow to continue the fight you so valiantly started,” Atty. Borlado further said.


She also expressed her gratitude to the dedicated employees of PCW whom she dubbed “the backbone of this institution.”



A Commitment to the Continuation of the Noble Cause


“As we mark this golden milestone, we also celebrate the bright future ahead. Together, with the collective support of our partners, we will continue to unearth even greater treasures for our nation,” the PCW expressed with unbridled optimism.


For her part, Atty. Borlado challenged the Commission to remain vigilant in addressing the persistent challenges that women face: discrimination, violence, limited access to resources, and underrepresentation in leadership positions.


“The journey ahead may be long and challenging, but with your continued support and collaboration, we are confident that we will reach our destination—a Philippines where women and men equally share the opportunities and benefits of development,” she declared.






To ensure that the torch of equality will be passed on to the next generation and continue lighting their way, the following young women leaders from different sectors of society delivered their messages of commitment both to the cause and to the country.


  • Dr. Melanie Reyes – the Executive Director of the Women and Gender Institute and the Chairperson of the Department of International Studies at Miriam College, representing women in academe;
  • Hon. Maria Katrina Jessica Gallegos-Dy – National Liga Ng Mga Barangay President who spoke on behalf of women in politics; 
  • Alisandra Lei Escobar – a Project Officer of the Pambansang Koalisyon ng Kababaihan sa Kanayunan (PKKK), also known as the National Rural Women Coalition, standing for women in rural communities; 
  • Nor Farajane  Guro Sabellina – the former Women’s International Boxing Association (WIBA) world atomweight champion and a representative of women in sports who transformed her adversity as a professional women boxer into an advocacy; and 
  • Ms. Jessica Bianca T. Sy – Vice President and Head of Design, Innovation, and Strategy of SM Development Corporation, serving as the voice of women in business.


A Call for Continued Action and Deeper Connection





“This golden anniversary not only celebrates our accomplishments but also serves as a clarion call for continued action. Our mission is far from over,” the PCW added. 


As the Commission remains committed to continue partnering with international agencies, fellow UN member countries, NGOs, the civil society, other national government agencies, local government units, women’s rights organizations, men supporters, and the entire citizenry in championing gender equality and women empowerment, the anniversary celebration culminated in a lively community dance with hits from the 1970s to the present. 


This proves that even after 50 years of being unstoppable, the PCW still exemplifies undeniable grace in its every movement, the rhythm that effortlessly syncs with any beat, and the captivating presence that can dance to the music of time.






A Toast to the Next Golden Chapter


And finally, to the Filipino women, another glass raised to your future that is full of endless possibilities from your one and only Philippine Commission on Women: 


“Here’s to another 50 years of PCW—and to the enduring, shining brilliance of Filipinas, whose worth remains the true gold of our nation. Together, let us continue unearthing equality and shaping a brighter, more inclusive, and empowered Bagong Pilipinas for all.”