On September 26, the WGEC celebrated Filipinas by highlighting Filipina icons and sharing Filipino snacks.  

The WGEC staff first shared a brief history of the pre-colonial Philippines, where women were highly regarded and in positions of honor. They often supported their communities as spiritual leaders, a.k.a babaylan. The specific roles of a babaylan were almost always filled by trans women, yet the WGEC doesn’t mention this in their presentation. They went on to describe colonial and post-colonial Philippines, where Filipina’s cultural roots have been stripped.  

In the modern age, Filipinas continue to thrive and the WGEC highlighted four Filipina icons: 

• Melchora Aquino 

• Known as the “Grand Woman of the Revolution,” she was deemed an icon of Filipino resistance. 

• Teresita Reyes 

• A culinary icon who wanted to make Filipino food accessible to those living abroad. She inspired the global brand “Mama Sita.” 

• Gloria Diaz 

• An awarded actress, model, and the first Filipina Ms. Universe. 

• Apo Whang Od 

• The oldest and last original Batok or traditional Kalinga tattoo artist.
  

These women were chosen because of their dedication to their culture and their crafts. In traditional WGEC fashion, there were many opportunities throughout the presentation to discuss how modern women can recognize internalized and societal restraints on their freedom, connect back to their cultures and therein be empowered. Some ideas from the leaders at the WGEC and attendees included fashion, makeup, storytelling, recipes, and speaking out.  

The WGEC continues to be a pillar of diversity and change, highlighting a need for community, but hopefully trans people won’t get lost in the shuffle next time.