Ten years ago, a group of visionary Filipina leaders came together with a shared dream—to create a space where women could connect, empower, and inspire one another. From that purpose-driven beginning, the Filipina CEO Circle (FCC) was born.
A decade later, FCC has grown into a formidable network of over 100 accomplished women who have made their mark across business, government, and civil society. Its members are united not just by professional success but by a shared belief that leadership is about purpose, service, and the responsibility to uplift others.
Looking Back: A Legacy of Leadership and Sisterhood
At its 10th Anniversary Celebration, the FCC reflected on a decade of growth, mentorship, and collective impact. The evening honored its founding members and celebrated the strength of Filipina leaders who continue to shape the nation’s business and social landscape.
FCC’s journey has been guided by its vision—to gain respect and recognition as the voice of Filipina women leaders—and its mission to advance women leaders through mentorship, education, and volunteerism. Over the years, the organization has stayed true to its five core values:
1. Start Conversations – Hosting Inspired Conversations conferences that brought together hundreds of women leaders.
2. Guide – Mentoring students and future leaders through structured programs.
3. Grow Together – Building genuine camaraderie through monthly meetings and summits.
4. Uplift – Empowering members who now hold leadership roles in organizations such as MAP and MBC.
5. Give Back – Mobilizing community initiatives such as COVID-19 PPE drives and annual gift programs for those in need.
Women in Leadership: Fixing the Broken Rung
The anniversary celebration also featured reflections from the McKinsey Study on Women in Leadership, which underscored both the progress and persistent challenges faced by women in the workplace.
While 79% of Filipina women aspire to be promoted, and 91% report having at least one woman leader, only 8% of Philippine companies are led by female CEOs—a figure that, though ahead of regional averages, remains far from where it should be.
The study highlighted a critical issue known as “the broken rung”—the first step toward leadership that too few women can successfully climb. Many women advance in staff or functional roles but remain underrepresented in leadership positions that directly lead to CEO or board-level roles.
The call to action was clear: women must gain the experiences that matter, and organizations must fix the first promotion step to ensure genuine equality in leadership opportunities.
Keynote Spotlight: Laudomia Pucci on Legacy and Leadership 
A highlight of the celebration was a thought-provoking keynote by Laudomia Pucci, daughter of the legendary Italian designer Emilio Pucci. Laudomia is a trailblazer in her own right. Having spent 37 years at the helm of the Pucci brand, including 21 years under LVMH, Laudomia shared her personal journey of transforming from the fashion world to the business of fashion.
She spoke about leading with creativity, empathy, and innovation, and the importance of reshaping legacy for each generation. “Legacy isn’t something you simply inherit—it’s something you rework and renew,” she said.
Her insights on AI in design, human–tech balance, and conscious consumption deeply resonated with the audience.
Pucci also spoke fondly of her connection to the Philippines—first visiting at age 12 and later on her honeymoon. She praised Filipinos for their warmth, resilience, and cultural depth. “Italy and the Philippines share the same human values,” she said. “Lead with empathy, creativity, and purpose—that is true leadership.”
Looking Ahead: The Next Ten Years
In our closing remarks, Marife Zamora and I reflected on FCC’s impact over the past decade and set our sights on the future.
Women’s representation in leadership has grown—from 10% to 13% of CEOs, and from 18% to 21% of board seats—but the work to close the gap continues. The next decade’s agenda includes:
1. Measuring Impact – Tracking mentorship outcomes and organizational reach.
2. Driving Numbers – Increasing women’s representation in executive and board roles.
3. Amplifying Success Stories – Sharing mentees’ journeys to inspire others.
We are deeply grateful to our FCC members and partners who have championed the cause. Special thanks to the organization’s pioneering founders: Delia Albert, Cristina Concepcion, Riza Mantaring, Marivic Anonuevo, Maan Hontiveros, Margie Moran, and Karen de Venecia, among others.
Continuing the Conversation
As the celebration concluded, one message stood out clearly: the story of Filipina leadership is still being written. The FCC’s next decade will be defined by continued collaboration, compassion, and courage—a commitment to lifting as they lead.
In the words of the closing tribute:
“Congratulations on ten remarkable years. Here’s to the next ten—of leadership, sisterhood, and impact. The Filipina CEO Circle will continue to start conversations, guide, grow, uplift, and give back.”
