Voices of Strength: JCI Manila’s Joint GMM Champions Courage, Leadership, and the Filipina Spirit

In a night defined by powerful voices and purposeful leadership, JCI Manila held its 4th General Membership Meeting and Joint GMM—bringing together sister chapters from across the country in a celebration of courage, resilience, and the evolving strength of the Filipina.

Joining the evening were representatives from JCI Manileña, JCI Makati Princess Urduja, JCI Marikina Marikit, JCI Cebu Zugbuana, JCI Iloilo Ilang Ilang, JCI Davaoeña Daba-Daba, JCI Legazpi Dawani, and JCI Macajalar 24k—turning the gathering into a powerful convergence of leaders and changemakers united by shared purpose.

More than a program, the evening became a platform for truth, conviction, and inspiration.

At the heart of the night were the voices of women who have stood firm in their beliefs and led with purpose.

Risa Hontiveros reminded the audience that leadership does not always come from volume, but from conviction.
“You don’t need to be the loudest in the room in order to be heard,” she shared—emphasizing that true leadership is grounded in paninindigan, in standing firm for what is right even in the face of adversity.

Equally compelling was the message of Leila de Lima, who reframed the fight for equality as something greater than individual struggle.
“Ang laban para sa mga kababaihan ay laban para sa mga institusyon,” she said—highlighting that the advancement of women is inseparable from the strength of the institutions that support them.

She spoke of leadership that does not leave people behind, reminding everyone that progress must be inclusive. She emphasized that resilience does not require the loss of compassion—“Resilience does not require you to abandon softness”—and that meaningful change is built one act of courage at a time.

From the world of business, Olivia Limpe-Aw stood as a testament to legacy and innovation. As the first female leader in a family business spanning five generations at Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc., she represents a shift in tradition—proving that leadership evolves while honoring its roots.

Her journey reflects a powerful mindset: Never give up. Through her leadership, she continues to reshape the business landscape for women—changing it one delicious sip at a time.

Adding to the evening’s momentum was Justine Cordero-Em, CEO of Hyve Sports Philippines, who emphasized that women do not lack strength—but often lack the right environment to grow. Her message centered on self-mastery, going beyond fitness and into personal development, and ultimately, impact.

“It’s about the impact you make in people,” she shared—reminding everyone that leadership is defined by influence and transformation.

The evening also marked a significant milestone with the presentation of eight newly inducted members of JCI MPU:

• Katrina Escueta
• Ethel Funtanilla
• Xandra Puyat
• Shelly Ann Samoy-Magpantay
• Lyssette Tetlow
• Andrea Gonzaga
• Regina Schelle Palabrica
• Kathrina Javier

Their induction symbolizes the continued growth of the organization and the strengthening of its leadership pipeline.

Adding excitement to the program, the World Congress raffle recognized four winners:

• Mara Christian Chavez – JCI Manileña
• Earl Kin Franco – JCI Manila
• Stella Rodriguez – JCI Makati Princess Urduja
• Kathleen Ann Mira – JCI Marikina Marikit

The raffle was made possible through the support of SP Kirby Chua, Sen. JJ Dequito, AVP Calel Gosingtian, and Pres. Edison Ke whose contributions helped energize the evening.

As the night came to a close, one thing became clear:

This was more than a gathering.
It was a convergence of voices that challenge, uplift, and inspire.

Each message carried a common truth—leadership is not about being the loudest, but about being grounded in purpose. Not about standing above others, but about lifting them along the way.

And in every story shared that night, one message stood strong:

This is how JCI Manila continues to Lead Beyond.