THE Far Eastern University (FEU) joined efforts in helping shape a more inclusive future in a forum organized by the Nextgen Organization of Women Corporate Directors recently at the BPI Wealth Lounge in Makati.
Anchored on the theme “Breaking Barriers: Women Leading in Business and Beyond,” the event gathered leaders from business, government and the academe to reflect on the progress of women’s leadership and the structural changes needed to support it.
A central question posed at the event was, “What does it take to shape a future where leadership is equitable, inclusive and sustainable in our social and institutional systems?”
A forum on ‘Breaking Barriers: Women Leading in Business and Beyond’ gathered leaders in business, government, and the academe to reflect on the progress of women’s leadership and the structural changes needed to support it. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Officials of the FEU Public Policy Center participated in the conversation, affirming the university’s long-standing commitment to research, inclusion and future-ready leadership.
Julia Andrea Abad, FEU Public Policy Center executive director, moderated a panel discussion with Mariana Zobel de Ayala of Ayala Land, Robina Gokongwei-Pe of Robinsons Retail, Cornel Francel Margareth Padilla of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Jean Franco, Political Science professor at UP Diliman.
Abad said the discussions touched on the lived realities of women in leadership, the role of mentorship, and how institutions can evolve to foster greater diversity at the top.
“Sustainability includes building systems that empower people equitably and evolve with the times,” Abad said adding that “true progress requires dismantling the barriers that keep leadership from reflecting the diversity of our society.”
Patricia Thea Basilio, data analyst at the FEU Public Policy Center, presented a research paper from a 2024 college experience survey about gender attitudes among Filipino students.
Her study revealed that sexist views remain prevalent among young people, especially males, and are often linked to higher interest in leadership roles, raising “important concerns for the country’s future leadership landscape.”
Basilio noted: “We found that many of those aspiring to lead still hold beliefs that could limit the very inclusivity they are meant to champion.”
Gianna Montinola, FEU consultant for external affairs, who introduced keynote speaker Zobel de Ayala, said inclusive leadership doesn’t happen by accident: “It requires intention, investment and collaboration. As an academic institution, FEU takes this responsibility seriously, both in what we teach and in the research we pursue.”
The event concluded with a call to continue building networks that support women not only in reaching leadership roles but also in thriving with them.
FEU officials said the university will continue working in generating data that matters, fostering dialogues that challenge norms, and preparing students to lead with both competence and values.
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