“The HERStage 2026 Women’s Month celebration was a powerful and meaningful gathering that highlighted the strength, resilience, and leadership of Filipinas. The event successfully conveyed the message that women, much like the Babaylans of our history, are leaders, nurturers, and changemakers in our society,” said Dr. Jaziel Naomi C. Reyes, OIC-Director of the Gender and Development Office, as Wesleyan University-Philippines concluded its Women’s Month Celebration 2026 with Herstage 2.0 on March 30, 2026, at the University Gymnasium.
The Search for Outstanding Women Awards, one of the highlights of the celebration, was officially announced on February 6, 2026. The recognition of outstanding women in the University community across several categories served as the highlight of the celebration.
Under Scholarship and Innovation, which recognizes a woman who has demonstrated excellence in teaching, research, innovation, and academic or professional mentorship, honoring contributions that advance knowledge, learning, research productivity, and scholarly excellence in alignment with the University’s commitment to scholarship, awardees were Dr. Michelle Tangonan (faculty, College of Hospitality and Tourism Management) for Higher Education and Ms. Lydia G. Calipdan (faculty, Junior High School) for Basic Education.
For Service (Community and University), which is given to a woman who has rendered exemplary service to the University and/or the wider community through extension work, outreach programs, student services, auxiliary services, and other service-oriented initiatives that reflect the University’s core value of service, the awardees were Prof. Mellany Lagasca (faculty, College of Nursing), Dr. Nerissa Longalong (Staff, Medical and Dental Clinic), and Ms. Cecil Espiritu (Auxiliary Personnel).
In Leadership and Governance, which recognizes a woman who has demonstrated principled leadership, sound judgment, and strategic vision in administrative, supervisory, or governance roles, contributing to an inclusive, responsive, and values-driven institutional environment, Dr. Tita Camat (High School Principal) was recognized.
Under Character and Integrity, which honors a woman who exemplifies the University’s core value of character through ethical conduct, professionalism, compassion, resilience, and positive influence, serving as a role model within the University community, awardees included Ms. Rhodalyn Lucas (OIC, University Treasury), Mrs. Gemma Ramirez (faculty, Elementary Department), and Ms. Laira Joy Dela Cruz (Staff, Office of VP for Academic Affairs).
A special award for Outstanding Woman in Leadership and Governance was conferred upon Sen. Risa Hontiveros, who also graced the event and delivered her inspirational message.
“Tandaan natin, hindi tayo nagsisimula sa wala. We come from a long line of women who led, who healed, who held communities together. We are their continuation. So, let’s not waste it. Lead well! Lead boldly! Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas,” Sen. Hontiveros reminded as she capped her message.
The event included performances from the Wesleyan Chamber Singers, WUP Dance Troupe, Teatrong Laan para sa Obra Ngayon (TELON), Executive Male Voices, Gallant Harmony, and students from the Support for the Handicapped and Their Rehabilitation through Education (SHARE), as well as faculty and students, both individual and group performers, from various colleges and departments.
In conclusion, Dr. Reyes also said that through the inspiring presence and message of Risa Hontiveros, participants were reminded of the vital role women play in shaping communities and advancing social transformation. She added that the senator’s message resonated with participants, encouraging women to embrace their voices, stand firm in their advocacies, and continue breaking barriers.
She further stated that Herstage 2026 was not only a celebration of talent and achievement but also a reaffirmation of the collective commitment to gender equality and women empowerment, and that it served as a platform where stories were shared, voices were amplified, and the spirit of empowered Filipinas was evident.
Article by PIO
Photos by John Carlo Dauz (PIO) and Lenscab Photography
