In celebration of International Women’s Month, Leading Women Magazine headed by its Publisher, CEO and Editor-In-Chief Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas gathered distinguished leaders, diplomats, entrepreneurs, and advocates at the Chairman’s Lounge of Okada Manila for THE LIST 2026, an annual recognition honoring women whose work continues to influence industries, communities, and public life.
The evening highlighted the evolving role of women in leadership, from policy-making and diplomacy to wellness, entrepreneurship, and humanitarian work. Each honoree represented a different dimension of leadership, yet shared a common commitment to service, growth, and social responsibility.
At the center of the celebration was keynote speaker, awardee, and presenter, Senator Grace Poe, whose presence highlighted the importance of legislation and governance in creating opportunities for women, children, and families. Her keynote address set the tone for the evening, emphasizing that leadership is measured not only by achievement but by impact on society.
Senator Grace Poe: Leadership Anchored on Policy and Purpose
As keynote speaker, Senator Grace Poe delivered a speech grounded on the responsibility of leadership to create meaningful and lasting change. Having served in public office since 2010, Poe highlighted the importance of policies that directly support families, particularly mothers and children.
She spoke about the Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino Act, a law institutionalizing a national feeding program in public schools. The measure addresses classroom hunger, a long-recognized barrier to effective learning. By ensuring that children receive proper nutrition during school hours, the program supports both educational performance and family well-being.
Poe also
emphasized the significance of the First 1,000 Days Act, which strengthens
healthcare and nutrition programs from pregnancy until a child reaches two
years old. Medical and development experts identify this period as critical to
physical growth and cognitive development. The law supports maternal healthcare
services and nutrition programs that contribute to long-term national
productivity.
According to
Poe, public policy plays a direct role in shaping equal opportunities. She
noted that when mothers are supported through healthcare access and social
programs, families gain stability, and children are better prepared for
education.
Her message
reflected the idea that investing in women’s welfare is closely linked to
national progress. She emphasized that leadership requires both policy action
and personal commitment to public service.
Personal
Influence and Foundations of Leadership
In her
speech, Senator Grace Poe also reflected on the influence of her mother, Susan
Roces, who was widely recognized in Philippine cinema. Poe shared that her
mother’s discipline, composure, and sense of duty shaped her understanding of
leadership.
She
described leadership as grounded in consistency and integrity, rather than
visibility alone. Her reflections illustrated how personal experiences often
inform public decisions, particularly in areas related to family welfare and
social protection.
During the
program, Senator Poe also greeted Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas and her mother
Remy Bondad on stage, recognizing the role of family support in the journeys of
women who lead organizations and initiatives.
Her presence
at THE LIST 2026 symbolized the connection between governance and community
development, particularly in areas where legislation affects education,
healthcare, and social welfare systems.
A Gathering
of Influential Women
THE LIST
2026 brought together leaders whose work reflects varied forms of influence
across sectors:
• Grace
Poe – Senator of the Philippines
• Saija
Nurminen – Ambassador of Finland
• Titanilla
Tóth – Ambassador of Hungary
• Dana
Kursh – Ambassador of Israel
• Cory
Quirino – Wellness Advocate and Media Personality
• Chi
Atienza – Vice Mayor of Manila
• Glenda
Hufano – Kiwanis International Philippine Luzon District
• Glenda
Dela Cruz – CEO of Brilliant Skin Essentials
• Victorina
Hesti Dewayani – Chargé d’Affaires of Indonesia
The honorees
represent public service, diplomacy, entrepreneurship, wellness advocacy, and
humanitarian engagement. Their work demonstrates how leadership contributes to
policy development, economic activity, and social programs.
Policy as a
Platform for Opportunity
The keynote
address of Senator Grace Poe highlighted the connection between legislation and
opportunity creation. Laws supporting nutrition, healthcare, and education
address structural barriers that affect families nationwide.
Poe noted
that leadership often involves working within systems that require reform,
particularly when addressing concerns affecting women and children. Her
legislative initiatives demonstrate how public institutions can create
frameworks that improve access to essential services.
Her message
emphasized that leadership requires preparation, accountability, and long-term
commitment to public welfare. She encouraged future leaders to pursue
education, develop competence, and remain guided by principles.
Continuing
the Role of Women in Nation-Building
THE LIST
2026 serves as a platform recognizing women who contribute to public life
through policy, advocacy, business leadership, and international cooperation.
As
emphasized by Senator Grace Poe, the progress of a nation is closely linked to
the opportunities available to women and the protection provided to children.
The
gathering at Okada Manila highlighted the continuing role of women in shaping
conversations on governance, economic participation, and social development.
Through THE
LIST, Leading Women Magazine documents individuals whose initiatives influence
communities and contribute to national development.
The
evening’s keynote message reinforced a central theme: leadership is defined not
only by recognition but by the responsibility to create conditions where future
generations can thrive.
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