Filipina trailblazers honored at Women’s Month event in New York

“An Evening with Distinguished Women” is an annual event hosted by the Philippine Consulate General in New York to honor women of Filipino ancestry for their contributions to the community. CONTRIBUTED

NEW YORK – In observance of Philippine National Women’s Month, the Consulate General in New York held “An Evening  with Distinguished Women” on March 21 at the Kalayaan Hall, Philippine Center with the theme, “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan!”

The annual event coincided with the celebration of Women’s History Month in the United States.

The honorees were Sheila Estacio Dennis, Dope Diagnostics co-founder and lab director; Government Policy Specialist Lauren Lalicon; and  Venessa Manzano, founder and director of the Filipino School of New York and New Jersey.

In his opening remarks, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile commended the honorees for their accomplishments in science, public service and education, and for inspiring the younger  generation of Filipino Americans.

Mangalile also cited the contributions of women to national development, highlighting some of the success stories showing the advancement of women empowerment and gender equality in the Philippines.

Soprano Kay Habana performed during the event, delivering a captivating rendition of Kundiman classics “Bituing Marikit” and “Mutya ng Pasig,” composed by National Artist Nicanor Abelardo.

The event was co-emceed by Deputy Consul General Adrian Cruz and Ethel Capuno with the United Nations Development Programme in New York.

From left, Philippine Consul General Senen Mangalile, Ethelind Capuno, Sheila Estacio Dennis, Lauren Lalicon, Venessa Manzano, Kay Habana and Deputy Consul General Adrian Cruz. CONTRIBUTED

“An Evening with Distinguished Women” is an annual event sponsored by the Philippine Consulate General in New York to recognize the exceptional accomplishments of Filipino American women in the Northeastern United Sates.

As part of its National Women’s Month commemoration, the Consulate also hosted a book discussion on Thea Guanzon’s debut novel “The Hurricane Wars” earlier this month at the Philippine Center.

“The Hurricane Wars” is a compelling narrative that intricately weaves the essence of Filipino and Southeast Asian cultural elements with the universal themes of courage, resilience and identity. Published in October last year, the book has become a New York Times bestseller.

“As we explore the world created by Thea Guanzon and the trials and triumphs of Talasyn, we also commemorate International Women’s Day,” Mangalile said during the event.

“This global celebration is a powerful reminder of the strides we’ve made towards gender equality, as well as the challenges that still lie ahead. It’s a day to celebrate the remarkable contributions of women to our societies and to acknowledge their indispensable role in forging a better world.”