In celebration of Women’s Month, the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) held its Special Learning Session (SLS) No. 29 “HERSTORY: A Learning Session on Women Empowerment” on March 18, 2026.
Conducted via Zoom, the event brought together educators and advocates to reflect on the historical and spiritual dimensions of women’s leadership and the ongoing mission of empowerment.
The session commenced with an opening remarks from Mr. Narcy F. Ador Dionisio, CEAP Executive Director. In his message, Mr. Ador Dionisio framed women’s empowerment as a fundamental path toward peace and social justice, resonating with the Global Compact on Education initiated by Pope Francis. He emphasized that within Catholic education, the mission is to form individuals who respect the inherent dignity of every person and act as builders of dialogue.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Aurora Javate De Dios, Senior Project Director of the Women and Gender Institute (WAGI) at Miriam College, delivered a profound presentation on the evolution of Women’s Human Rights (WHR). Central to her discussion was the redefinition of power—moving away from traditional “Power Over” (control and domination) toward transformative models:
Power With: Grounded in collaboration, mutual support, and solidarity.
Power To: The individual ability and potential to shape one’s own life.
Power Within: A sense of self-reflection and inner strength.
Prof. De Dios also highlighted the three dimensions of empowerment: Access to resources, Agency, and Achievements. She urged schools to instill these values by respecting student voices, celebrating diversity, and fostering a culture of fairness.
The session concluded with an engaging Q&A moderated by Ms. Charina A. Claustro, CEAP Advocacy and Public Engagement Officer, where participants explored practical ways to “break the glass ceiling” in the workplace and address systemic challenges such as patriarchal norms and gender-based violence.
As CEAP continues its advocacy work, “HERSTORY” serves as a reminder that empowerment is not just a woman’s issue but a matter of human rights that benefits all of humanity.