Front & Female Awards Philippines 2026: the nominees driving progress for women and girls

This newly introduced category recognises women advancing education, learning access and long-term development for women and girls through systems, programmes and innovation.

Beia Florete-Santos

Founder and School Directress, Maya Forest Preschool Manila

Beia Florete-Santos is pioneering nature-based and inclusive education in the Philippines through the country’s first forest preschool. Her work promotes environmental stewardship while creating more accessible learning experiences for children of diverse needs.

Geraldine Acuña-Sunshine

President and CEO, Khan Academy Philippines

Geraldine Acuña-Sunshine has expanded Khan Academy Philippines to more than 2,500 schools, helping improve learning outcomes nationwide. Her work combines education innovation, AI-powered learning and healthcare advocacy to drive large-scale social impact.

Lynn Pinugu

Co-founder and Executive Director, Mano Amiga; Co-founder and CEO, She Talks Asia

Lynn Pinugu is advancing education and women’s empowerment through institutions that provide access, opportunity and community support. Through Mano Amiga and She Talks Asia, she continues to champion conversations and programmes that uplift women and underserved communities.

This category honours entrepreneurs building ventures that redefine industries and close gaps through innovation, culture and enterprise.

Cyndi Fernandez-Beltran

Co-founder and design director, Moss Manila Design House

Cyndi Fernandez-Beltran has built Moss Manila Design House into one of the country’s leading experiential design firms. Her work has helped redefine how brands connect with audiences through immersive and thoughtfully designed spaces.

Pamela Gotangco

Visual Artist; Co-founder, PamPinay

Pamela Gotangco uses art, fashion and cultural entrepreneurship to preserve and elevate Filipino textile traditions. Through PamPinay, she creates sustainable opportunities for weaving communities while showcasing Filipino craftsmanship on the global stage.

Rene McHugh-Rodrigo

Founder, Oh Holiday! Apothecary, Face Sculpt, Woods & Wonder, Aurora Herbal Spa

Rene McHugh-Rodrigo is redefining holistic wellness through businesses that blend herbal medicine, education and therapeutic care. Her work is helping professionalise wellness practices while creating new opportunities within the sector.

This category recognises women redefining systems through technology, science and industry transformation.

Gay Jane Perez

Director General, Philippine Space Agency

Gay Jane Perez is helping position the Philippines within the global space economy while applying space technology to climate resilience, disaster management and national development. Her leadership is expanding the country’s scientific capabilities and inspiring the next generation of innovators.

Kristine Claire Ongcangco

Founder and CEO, Parlon

Kristine Claire Ongcangco has built Parlon into one of the Philippines’ leading beauty and wellness technology platforms. Through digital tools and payments infrastructure, she is helping modernise an industry traditionally underserved by technology.

Maria Sucgang

Co-founder and CEO, Remotify

Maria Sucgang is transforming remote work through Remotify, a platform that helps global companies hire Filipino talent while providing employment protections and benefits. Her model combines technological innovation with inclusive economic opportunity.

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This category celebrates emerging voices under 30 shaping new narratives of impact and leadership.

Alexandra Jocom

Founder and CEO, Halia

Alexandra Jocom is reshaping the period care industry through sustainable, biodegradable products designed with both women and the environment in mind. Her work brings together femtech innovation, public health and climate-conscious entrepreneurship.

Dani Buenvenida

Content creator and podcast host, Landian with Dani

Dani Buenvenida uses digital storytelling to spark conversations around self-worth, relationships and modern womanhood. Through her platform, she encourages young women to approach life and relationships with confidence, clarity and agency.

Hyacenth Bendaña

National coordinator and co-founder, Move As One Coalition and People's Budget Coalition

Hyacenth Bendaña is a leading young advocate for inclusive and commuter-focused transport reform. Through research, policy work and grassroots mobilisation, she is helping to shape a more equitable future of mobility for Filipinos.

This category recognises women driving systemic change for underserved communities and advancing equity and sustainability.

Anna Oposa

Co-founder and executive director, Save Philippine Seas

Anna Oposa has become one of the Philippines’ most recognisable voices in marine conservation and environmental education. Through Save Philippine Seas, she is empowering communities and young leaders to protect the country's natural resources.

Anya Lim

Co-founder, managing  and creative director, Anthill Fabric Gallery

Anya Lim is creating sustainable livelihoods for Filipino artisans through Anthill Fabric Gallery. Her work combines cultural preservation, women's economic empowerment, and circular design to create lasting social impact.

Gianna Montinola

Co-founder and president, Hands On Manila

Gianna Montinola has spent more than two decades championing volunteerism through Hands On Manila. Her work has mobilised thousands of Filipinos to contribute their time and skills toward meaningful community development.

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This category honours women advancing physical, mental, and reproductive health and well-being.

Carol Joanna “Jaycy” Olivarez

Founder and CEO, Eluvo Health

Carol Joanna “Jaycy” Olivarez is modernising women’ healthcare through Eluvo Health, a platform that integrates reproductive, hormonal and preventive care. Her patient-centred approach is helping make specialised healthcare more accessible and responsive to women's needs.

Eileen Manalo

OBGyn and fertility expert; Deputy Editor of Fertility and Reproduction, the official journal of the Asia Pacific Initiative on Reproduction (ASPIRE)

Eileen Manalo is a leading voice in reproductive medicine, helping expand awareness and access to fertility care in the Philippines. Her work is shaping both clinical practice and public policy in women’s health.

Kim Cruz

Visual Artist; Founder and Managing Director, Kalma Art Foundation

Kim Cruz is using art as a tool for healing, empowerment and community building. Through the Kalma Art Foundation, she brings creative expression and therapeutic support to underserved communities and vulnerable groups.

The winners of the Front & Female Awards Philippines 2026 will be announced on June 26, celebrating women whose work continues to create opportunities, challenge barriers, and inspire progress for future generations.

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