Philippines – Like Her

Geraldine Roman

Geraldine Roman, the first transgender person elected to the Congress of the Philippines, has made a lasting impact on the country through her resilient and determined journey. Facing challenges and teasing in her youth, Roman’s father instilled in her the importance of confidence. She pursued her education and obtained two master’s degrees in Spain before returning to the Philippines, where she embarked on a political career. As a congresswoman, she has been a trailblazer and advocate for equality, spearheading the passage of the SOGIE Equality Bill and championing various advocacies for her district. Her contributions have gained recognition both locally and globally, solidifying her as a pioneer in Philippine politics.

PhilippinesPolitician

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, born Maria Gloria Macaraeg Macapagal Arroyo on April 5, 1947, is a Filipino academic and politician. She served as the 14th president of the Philippines from 2001 to 2010, making her the longest-serving president since Ferdinand Marcos. Currently, she is serving as a Deputy Speaker in the congress since 2022. Arroyo’s remarkable political career and her ability to hold high offices in the Philippines have made her one of only two Filipinos to have held at least three of the four highest offices in the country: vice president, president, and house speaker.

PhilippinesUnited StatesAsian American

Victoria “Vicki” Manalo Draves

Victoria Manalo Draves, a Filipino American competitive diver, made history at the 1948 Summer Olympics by becoming the first woman to win gold medals in both platform and springboard diving. Despite facing racial discrimination and financial challenges, she overcame obstacles with determination and hard work. Her achievements paved the way for future generations of female divers, inspiring others to break down societal barriers.

PhilippinesActivist

Rosa Henson

María Rosa Luna Henson, also known as “Lola Rosa” or Grandma Rosa, was a pioneering figure in Filipino history as the first Filipina to publicly share her story as a comfort woman during World War II. Born on December 5, 1927, in Pasay City, Henson grew up in poverty with her single mother, Julia, in Pampanga in the Central Luzon region.

PhilippinesUnited StatesJournalist

Maria Ressa

Maria Angelita Ressa, born in Manila, Philippines in 1963, is a Filipino and American journalist known for her significant contributions to journalism and her advocacy for press freedom. As the co-founder and CEO of Rappler, a groundbreaking online news platform, she has received international recognition for her fearless reporting and commitment to exposing truths. Ressa’s journey in journalism began with her work as an investigative reporter for CNN in Southeast Asia, where she covered major events and stories with a relentless pursuit of justice. She has overcome challenges and obstacles throughout her career, particularly in the Philippines, where her criticism of the government led to her arrest and conviction. Despite these challenges, Ressa remains resolute in her pursuit of truth and press freedom, serving as an inspiration to journalists around the world. Her exceptional contributions have been recognized with awards such as inclusion in Time’s Person of the Year 2018 issue and the joint recipient of the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts in safeguarding freedom of expression and defending the truth.

PhilippinesBowling

Liza del Rosario

Liza del Rosario, a Filipino ten-pin bowling player, has become a celebrated figure in Philippine bowling history. With her exceptional skills and remarkable achievements, she has left an indelible mark on the sport. Del Rosario’s ascent to prominence came in the early 2000s when she showcased her unrivaled precision and finesse on the international stage, earning her numerous gold medals and bringing immense pride to her country. Her talent, dedication, and accomplishments continue to inspire aspiring athletes, particularly women, to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.

PhilippinesBowling

Arianne Cerdeña

Arianne Cerdeña, a Filipino ten-pin bowling player, is renowned for winning the first gold medal for the Philippines in the Summer Olympics. Having excelled in regional and international competitions, Cerdeña’s remarkable achievements have left an indelible mark on the sporting community and her nation. Her journey symbolizes resilience, determination, and dedication, inspiring aspiring bowlers and making a positive impact on the lives of others through her nursing profession.

PhilippinesBowling

Bong Coo

Olivia “Bong” Coo, born in 1948, is a Filipino sports administrator and retired professional bowler. She has earned the distinction of being the most decorated Filipino athlete, with an impressive total of 78 medals, including 37 gold medals, in regional and world competitions. Coo’s remarkable achievements include being a four-time world champion and being listed in the Guinness Book of World Records twice. She has been recognized internationally as one of the greatest bowlers of all time and has made significant contributions to the sport of bowling in the Philippines.

PhilippinesUnited StatesAsian American

Cristeta Comerford

Cristeta Pasia Comerford, born on October 27, 1962, is a Filipino-American chef who has made history as the White House executive chef since 2005. Hailing from Sampaloc, Manila, in the Philippines, she is the first woman and the first person of Asian origin to hold this prestigious position.

PhilippinesWeight Lifting

Hidilyn Diaz

Hidilyn Francisco Diaz-Naranjo OLY is a renowned Filipina weightlifter and airwoman, known for her exceptional achievements in the world of sports. Born on February 20, 1991, Diaz made history by becoming the first Filipino to ever win an Olympic gold medal for the Philippines. Her remarkable journey, dedication, and determination have inspired countless individuals, and her impact on women’s history in the Philippines is indisputable.