Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval was honored with the “Most Influential Woman in the World” award from the foundation for Filipina Women’s Network (FWN) during the Awards Gala ceremony, held as part of the 20th Filipina Leadership Global Summit at Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park in Sydney, Australia, from October 27 to October 31.
Mayor Jeannie Sandoval and Chairman of the Philippine Red Cross Malabon City Chapter Ricky Sandoval (Photo from Malabon City PIO)
The summit was dubbed “Femtech Features: AI & Tech,” the FWN celebrated women of Philippine ancestry who were leading transformative change globally.
Sandoval was selected from an impressive field of nominees recognized for her remarkable contributions as both a businesswoman and public servant.
She received the award in the "Policy Maker and Visionary: The Strategist" category for the Secondary Economic Sector: Government, honoring Filipina leaders who drive transformative change through strategic insights, policy influence, and innovation.
Sandoval is also celebrated for her dedication to improving lives by sharing her expertise, fostering advancements in business, industry, and society, and helping to create a more inclusive and prosperous future.
“We thank the Filipina Women’s Network for the award and for its goal to empower women to become leaders that will shape the society and the economy for the better. The award serves as proof of our courage to face any challenges and aim for the best,” she said.
“This serves as an inspiration not just for me, but for all who were also recognized to continue giving our best in our specific fields and to encourage women to reach their full potential as we walk together towards a better world,” Sandoval added.
The "Most Influential Filipina in the World" award has helped build a powerful network of Filipina leaders worldwide, honoring those who redefine leadership and enhance the Filipino identity.
The award also recognizes individuals who achieve excellence in their fields, advocate for social good, support others through mentorship, and leave a lasting legacy.
Founder and CEO of the FWN Marilyn Mondejar said that the awardees were not just leaders, they were visionaries who dared to reimagine the future.
“These women embody the spirit of innovation, resilience, and compassion that defines the Filipina on the world stage. Through their groundbreaking work in AI, technology, and beyond, they are not only shattering glass ceilings but are architecting entirely new leadership paradigms,” she said.
“To be acknowledged by FWN, the premier women’s organization for the global Filipina, is a unique distinction. It is not just a trophy. It is a validation of my being empowered to rise above life challenges. It is a recognition that I have contributed, especially in my calling as a lawyer, to ensure that those with less have more in law,” Mondejar added.
According to the city’s public information office, Sandoval has committed to a two-year “Global Project” to uplift Filipina women within her local community.
This initiative will include mentoring the next generation of leaders and sponsoring their participation in future Filipina summits.
Sandoval, the first female mayor of Malabon, also served as the city’s vice mayor from 2013 to 2019.
The mayor also has extensive experience as a businesswoman and leader, including roles as a director of the Development Bank of the Philippines Service Corporation in 2021 and a board member of the Development Bank of the Philippines from 2020 to 2021.
Additionally, she served as Chairperson of the Philippine Red Cross Malabon City Chapter in 2019 and was president of Soroptimist International from 2008 to 2016.