'Babae ka, hindi babae lang': Topnotcher ignites passion for female criminologists
By Sonny Daanoy
At A Glance
- Criminology, where stereotypes have long associated the profession with men, women's empowerment is making significant strides.
- She then emphasized the challenges in the said career path, especially for women.
- She expressed gratitude towards female professionals in the field of criminology, citing that they served as her inspiration throughout her studies.
The boundless capabilities, contributions, and roles of women undeniably exert a profound influence and play a significant role in today's society.

Even in traditionally male-dominated fields like criminology, where stereotypes have long associated the profession with men, women's empowerment is making significant strides.
In the most recent Criminology Licensure Exam (CLE) in February 2024, the influence of women's empowerment was evident in the rankings.
Angeline Sarno Ilagan, a 22-year-old graduate of Cavite State University (CvSU), emerged as one of the topnotchers in the latest CLE, clinching the second spot with an impressive average of 91.15 percent in the results.

READ:
https://mb.com.ph/2024/3/6/15-684-examinees-pass-february-2024-criminology-licensure-exam
In an interview with Manila Bulletin on March 7, Ilagan honored all aspiring female criminologists: “Babae ka, hindi babae lang” (You’re [female criminologists] a woman, not just a woman."
She then emphasized the challenges in the said career path, especially for women.
"I know that criminology is not easy for females, both physically and mentally, but we can keep up with men. It's not a hindrance for us to become registered criminologists," Ilagan said in a mix of English and Filipino.
Meanwhile, she advised aspiring female criminologists “to always believe in oneself, that being a woman does not limit one's ability to achieve what we desire.”
“Also, trust in God and His plan for us, and always seek His guidance first," she said.
College, licensure exam preparation
Moreover, Ilagan commended her university which according to her is a “top performing school in criminology.”

"That's why I am motivated to do well and exert effort in my studies here,” she explained.
During her college days, Ilagan highlighted that CvSU, the university she attended, prioritized gender equality.
This commitment to equality created a supportive environment, making her exam review process almost seamless.

Before the examination, Ilagan mentioned that she had enrolled in a review center, and the program lasted for five months.
Future plans
Meanwhile, despite achieving topnotcher status, Ilagan remains "undecided" about her plans and is uncertain about which bureau related to her course she will apply to.
However, she underscored that she is open to all the possible opportunities.

"My current goal is to apply all the things I've learned that I can contribute to the criminology profession,” Ilagan said.
Furthermore, she expressed gratitude towards female professionals in the field of criminology, citing that they served as her inspiration throughout her studies.
"I just want to tell them that they are one of my inspirations to pursue this profession, and I'm proud because despite the challenges of being a police officer, gender did not become a barrier for them to fulfill their duties and protect our country."
She further emphasized that to support female police officers, "there should be more career development opportunities for them to excel in their professions."