This past year has been fraught with political scandals, natural calamities, and showbiz infidelities—and that, to some, just about renders it unsalvageable. But in the midst of all the societal wreckage, shining examples of womankind have given us a reason to put aside pessimism and look forward to the tenth annum of the 21st century with renewed confidence. See who you thought deserved a trophy for their accomplishments as the female heroes of 2009.
Proudly Pinay
“Cory Aquino is my hero because she made me believe in democracy again. RIP.”
–Anna Valerio, 22, intern
“Cory Aquino. Even in death she was able to unite the Filipino people.”
–Michelle Fernandez, 26, senior product manager
“Cheche Lazaro for journalism! A few months ago she was being bullied/scared/threatened by GSIS, but she stood her ground and went to court.”
–Tami Ledesma, 22, magazine art editor
“Charice Pempengco! She’s really talented and she made us all proud by performing with Oprah and alongside Celine Dion.”
–Marie, 22, video production specialist
“Aling Dionisia. She has been abandoned by two husbands but has never lost her resilient spirit. Say what you will, but she turned her life around!”
–Marilena Castillo, 60, mother
“Katrina Halili for exposing Hayden Kho.”
–Jojo Yujuico Gutierrez, 40, architect
“Maricar Reyes! For gracefully handling the Hayden situation and jumping back despite it all!”
–Cara Sumabat, 22, brand manager"
Dra. Kim Pascual (the lady spearheading Operation Blessing) and her team, for helping galvanize people and med personnel in volunteerism.”
–Jo Peña, 56, senior category manager
“Jinkee Pacquiao, because she embodies the kind of strong woman that I hope to be one day. She’s smart, she’s patient, she’s a loving and devoted mother, and you can tell she isn’t in her marriage for the material things. I’m willing to bet that if Manny does have a wandering eye, he keeps coming back to her because she knows how to take care of him. Plus, she wins best makeover for 2009!”
–Abi Portillo, 23, soul singer
“Gang Badoy. What Gang does can be summed up in four words: Fighting the good fight. Whether she's raising literacy by running Rock Ed, rallying relief efforts post-Ondoy, enlightening and entertaining people through her radio show, or just seeing her friends through exceptionally tough times, among countless other laudable activities, she is an inspiration.”
–Luis Katigbak, 35, writer, columnist, and editor
“GMA, because in spite of being unpopular, her economic policies saved us from crisis."
–Leah Figueroa, 45, sales manager
“My daughter Bea. Two weeks ago her teacher called Born Again Christians ‘Jesus freaks.’ She raised her hand and told her teacher that she was a Christian and is proud to give her life to Jesus. Her teacher wrote her a letter of apology after the class!”
–Grace Zorilla, 50, mother
Global greats
“I like Michelle Obama. She’s not your typical first lady—she’s very hands-on and she forms her own opinions about significant issues, like aid for women and military families.”
–Belle Yambao, 21, editorial assistant
“Michelle Obama, with her thunder and lightning arms!”
–Maxine Borja, 21, new business development head
“Jenny Sanford, for not putting up with her philandering politico husband’s crap!”
–Eileen Ang, 32, managing editor
“Ellen Degeneres, for replacing Paula Ab-drugs on American Idol.”
–Liana Bautista, 25, features editor
“Tavi, the 13-year-old fashion blogger. She’s proven that age is just a number. Now she’s collaborating with huge fashion brand Rodarte on its line for Target. Amazing!”
–Sara Samonte, 19, intern
“The late Julia Child (I loved “Julie & Julia!”) for teaching me to enjoy the simple pleasures in learning how to perfectly poach an egg.”
–Bianca Dumaup, 24, freelance writer
“Hillary Clinton. She has true grit, grace under pressure, courage, fortitude, ambition, and the power to do good and make a difference.”
–Rebecca Pestaño-Smith, 61, consultant
“Lady Gaga! She totally redefined individuality and made talking about women’s sexuality not taboo!”
–Anisha Daryanani, 21, student
“Catherine Zeta-Jones. She made her Broadway debut in ‘Little Night Music’ and got remarkable reviews!”
–Tracy Sentuyo, 25, graphic artist
“Tina Fey—she's the poster child for smart, sassy, beautiful women everywhere. Just goes to show that sometimes, brunettes DO have more fun.”
–Ria Vita Puangco, 33, world observer
(Photo sources: Cory Aquino, Enie Reyes; Charice Pempengco, Star Records; Katrina Halili, Pep.ph; Jinkee Pacquiao, Pep.ph; GMA, Spot.ph; Michelle Obama, Creatspace; Ellen Degeneres, Simon & Schuster; Hillary Clinton, Scribner; Tina Fey, Universal Pictures)
