Throughout history, women have shown exceptional resilience and fortitude, trumping societal limitations to take on leadership roles and serve as sources of inspiration for all. A study by the Ohio State University in 2020 reveals that people perceive female leaders to excel in both communicating with others and demonstrating consideration. Women tend to employ a higher degree of transformational leadership. Biology, meanwhile tells us that the female brain seems to afford women intuition, empathy, collaboration, self-control, and a balanced level of concern or conscientiousness, traits that, as it happens, contribute to outstanding leadership. In short, women were built to lead… And so, we lead!

Today, more Maria Claras are being installed in higher posts in Philippine governance. These Filipinas are not mere symbols of gender equality but real catalysts for progress, advocating for a more inclusive society.

As a public servant, I am happy to be part of a government where women are breaking barriers and playing substantial roles in shaping policies and driving positive change. Take the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), for instance, where majority of senior officials are abled and resourceful women, all under the banner of a budget secretary who can be considered, depending on the generation, as either the Madonna or the Taylor Swift of Philippine economics.

This Women’s Month, we take the time to applaud the dedication and excellence of our female leaders whose achievements resonate beyond the corridors of power. Here is a short list of women leaders who, for me, are vigorously changing Philippine politics.

First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos | The Kingmaker

The literal mother of the Philippines right now, the First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos is a kingmaker, quite similar to her mother-in-law former FL Imelda Marcos. FL Liza served as the main strategist in President BBM’s presidential campaign, organizing everything behind the scenes. She has also raised well three sons, namely Cong. Sandro, Simon, and Vinny.

FL Liza’s assumption of her role marked the first instance the Philippines has had a First Lady since Loi Ejercito, the wife of former President Joseph Estrada. And it’s not often a country gets a working First Lady whose presence is felt. Although she shuns the public spotlight, FL Liza’s brilliance shines through.

The First Lady has championed programs in support of arts and crafts, as well as culture. She initiated programs centered on cultural enhancement, preservation, industry, and tourism, and inaugurated programs benefitting various artists, stressing her dedication to fostering and sustaining the arts. She also places a high priority on the rehabilitation of the Pasig River, aspiring to metamorphose it into a captivating attraction akin to the Thames and Seine.

FL Liza led the revitalization of Malacañang Palace, upgrading and modernizing its interiors with authentic Filipino designs. Note that the last major renovation took place in 1979 during the term of former FL Imelda Marcos. She also initiated the renovations of Bahay Ugnayan, Teus Mansion, and the Goldenberg Mansion, which now function as museums highlighting the rich culture and history shaped by Philippine Presidents. Because of FL Liza, the neglected parts of our Filipino heritage have been revived.

Vice President Sara Duterte | The Steel Magnolia

Vice President and Department o f Education Secretary Sara Zimmerman Duterte-Carpio is a “steel magnolia,” a woman who embodies both conventional femininity and extraordinary strength.

Fondly addressed as “Inday,” the Visayan term of endearment for “beloved,” the Vice President is adored by so many Filipinos.

VP Inday Sara ticks all the boxes of what I think is the ideal woman leader. She is charming, intelligent, strong, brave, fierce, principled, and arguably, the most beautiful vice president in the world, at least as of writing. She looks gorgeous in photos, but even more breathtaking in real life.

In her role as Education Secretary, the public bears witness to VP Sara’s motherly demeanor at events whenever she reads books with children, visits classrooms, and generally interacts with young students. Her tough-talking leadership approach, meanwhile, becomes apparent when she advocates for the welfare of the underprivileged and engages with progressive groups.

In her steadfast focus on the needs and wellbeing of the Filipinos, she not only leads but stands as a champion of the people. The majestic eagle of the south, the pride of Mindanao, is a national power to reckon with.

Senator Loren Legarda | The Lioness

Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda has, and will always be, an idol in Philippine politics. In the den of fierce lawmakers, she dominates the space with her strong presence and commanding voice. She is a figure of elegance, might, and intensity.

Senator Loren is a prominent environmental advocate, driving climate change awareness and legislation. She authored the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, Clean Air Act, and Climate Change Act. Globally recognized for her dedication, she holds titles like Global Leader for Tomorrow and UNEP Laureate. She actively contributes to global initiatives, serving as a UNDRR Global Champion for Resilience and holding ambassadorial roles in climate change and disaster risk reduction.

Senator Loren’s name will resound in the annals of Philippine governance through time for her transformative contributions to environmental advocacy and legislative initiatives that have left an enduring imprint on the nation’s trajectory.

Sec. Mina Pangandaman | The Darling of the Philippine Cabinet

Number one in my book is the first Muslim budget secretary and the only woman in the current Philippine economic team, Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman. She chairs the Development Budget Coordination Committee, and cochairs the Intergovernmental Relations Body.

I greatly admire Sec. Mina and how committed she is in serving the Filipinos. She began as a research assistant in the Senate and, through blood, sweat, and tears, as well as an unwavering dedication to excellence and honest work, ascended to leadership positions in the executive branch.

She has this unexplainable charm that gets people to like her. Her enigma, pleasing personality, and physical attractiveness led her fellow public servants to give her the affectionate title “The Darling of the Philippine Cabinet.”

Her passion, heart, and perseverance earned Sec. Mina the position she holds today. Working closely with her at the DBM, I have learned a great deal. One guiding principle of hers that I truly resonate with is “We rise by lifting others.” This echoes in my mind 24/7.

Sec. Mina lives by this profound truth on the interconnected nature of fulfillment and success. She actively contributes to the growth, wellbeing, and success of those around her, creating a positive and collaborative environment. When we extend a helping hand, offer support, or motivate others to reach new heights, we not only foster a sense of trust, unity, and goodwill but create a ripple effect that elevates us all.

Land Bank president Lynette Ortiz | The Rising Phoenix

The 11th president and CEO of Land Bank of the Philippines, Lynette V. Ortiz has more than three decades of expertise in banking and finance.

The first time I met her, I was immediately wowed. She exudes an imposing presence. She is prim and proper, welldressed, and has this disarming smile. Everything about her is impeccable.

As a backgrounder, Lynette has occupied diverse senior positions in foreign and local financial institutions. Her extensive career has seen her excel in crucial areas like risk management, treasury, corporate finance, and capital markets. Before assuming her current position, Lynette made history as the first Filipino CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Philippines, where she was pivotal in devising strategies for the expansion of the local franchise across various client segments while ensuring sustainable financial performance.

Just like Secretary Mina, Lynette is also an advocate of digitalization. She has proven her proficiency and leadership, contributing significantly to the success and stability of the organizations she has been a part of.