At the Breaking Barriers: Women Leading in Business and Beyond forum, inspiring voices came together to champion inclusive leadership and drive future-ready impact. Organized by the FEU Public Policy Center (FPPC) in partnership with the NextGen Organization of Women Corporate Directors (NOWCD), the event was held on June 23, 2025, at the BPI Wealth Lounge, 27F Ayala Triangle Gardens Tower 2, Paseo de Roxas, Makati City. The forum brought together influential women leaders from business, government, and academe to share insights on overcoming barriers and driving change for a more inclusive future.
The event featured a keynote address by Mariana Zobel de Ayala, Managing Director at Ayala Corporation, introduced by FPPC Trustee Atty. Gianna Montinola. The panel discussion was moderated by Julia Andrea Abad, Executive Director of FPPC. Panelists included Robina Gokongwei-Pe, Chair of Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc.; Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, Spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines; and Dr. Jean Franco, Professor at the UP Department of Political Science. The forum also featured a research presentation by Thea Basilio, Data Analyst at FPPC, and closing remarks by Boots Geotina-Garcia, Chairperson of NOWCD.
Discussions explored the leadership journeys of the panelists, the impact of mentorship and supportive networks, and the evolving expectations of women leaders. Panelists also reflected on gender dynamics in traditionally male-dominated sectors, the role of public and private policies in enabling leadership, and bold changes needed to accelerate women’s participation in decision-making. Together, the speakers offered valuable perspectives on building inclusive, future-ready leadership for the next generation.
