As we reflect on the recent celebration of International Women’s Month, we highlight three Filipinas whose work in heritage, education, and media continues to inspire change beyond the month of March.
Gemalin Batino-Diaz: Guarding Heritage
As Chairperson of Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo, Inc., Gemalin Batino-Diaz spent 22 years advocating for the autonomy of the Cuartel de Santo Domingo in Santa Rosa, Laguna—a battle that finally ended in 2022. What was once under exclusive police use is now a thriving cultural hub with 17 trained Cultural Heritage Workers (CHWs), mostly women.
“From zero visitors, we now have almost 11,000,” she shares. “We even collaborate with the police for patriotic tours and signed an MOA with the National Police College.”
Gemalin’s leadership style is hands-on. She trained her team through workshops and mentoring, then shifted to performance-based management. “Loving your people and seeing their potential drives me,” she says.
Her advice: “Follow your dreams but don’t forget your identity as Filipino women.”
Dr. Pamela Grace Muhi: Teaching with Purpose
For Dr. Pamela Grace Muhi, professor at PUP and Ph.D. holder in Public Administration, teaching is a calling. “There’s no greater impact than being a teacher,” she says. “When students message me years later saying their research made a difference, I know I’ve done something right.”
Teaching, she adds, demands constant learning. “Staying relevant is a challenge, but I treat it as a chance to grow.”
For Dr. Muhi, empowerment means lifting everyone—especially those often left behind. “Don’t be afraid to learn, unlearn, and relearn,” she tells young women. She draws inspiration from the Optimist Creed, focusing on positivity and self-improvement.
Ruby Asoy-Lebajo: Championing Stories
Veteran journalist Ruby Asoy-Lebajo, who recently earned her master’s degree in Communication, has spent over 30 years in media and public relations. “My defining moment came in the ’90s when I wrote exclusive features that inspired others,” she recalls.
Keeping up with the digital age has been her biggest challenge. “Adapting to new platforms taught me how to stay relevant and continue empowering women.”
She balances multiple roles by focusing on what matters most. “Empowerment is about showing up for women, supporting their stories and causes.”
Her advice? “Pursue your passions with integrity and resilience.”
One Mission, Many Voices
From conserving history to shaping young minds and amplifying untold stories, Gemalin, Dr. Muhi, and Ruby reflect the power of purpose-driven leadership. Their lives remind us that no role is too small to create impact, and that the real legacy lies in uplifting others.
These women aren’t just making history—they’re preserving it, teaching it, and writing it for the next generation.
