If I had the chance to be another person for a day I would like to be…..my Grandmother.

My “Lola” was the woman who raised me. She was one of the first “women leaders” of this country. She was a staunch supporter of women’s rights even before it became fashionable.

Educated as a teacher, she rose to be the president of the Philippine Women’s University. From there she was asked by the former First Lady (La Imelda) to create and head a commission solely for the purpose of furthering the plight of Filipina women. Thus, the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women was born. At this time she also led the creation of Balikatan sa Kaunlaran (BSK) that helped women in becoming income generating members of the family. She was also part of the group that started S.T.O.P. (Stop Trafficking of Pilipinas). Her other affiliations included the UNDP (United Nations Development Programme), The Philippine Community Chest, The Philippine Red Cross (she was bestowed the title of Honorary Director for life), and MISCA (Manila International Sister Cities Association). And last but not the least, she was a founding member of the Bayanihan International Dance Troupe (she served as executive director until her 80’s).

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