The University of Northern Philippines officially launched the Gabriela Lecture Series on March 31, 2026, inaugurating what promises to be a lasting platform for critical discussions, reflections, and learning on women’s empowerment and gender equality. The event, held in celebration of National Women’s Month 2026, brought together students, faculty, university officials, and distinguished guests for a historic occasion.
Esteemed university officials, led by Dr. Erwin Cadorna, University President, and Dr. Rolando Navarro, VP for Academic Affairs, graced the launch alongside the Director of the Center for Gender and Development (CGAD), Atty. Katrynn Louise Eder; the Dean of the College of Public Administration (CPAd), Dr. Cid Javier; coordinators of CGAD; and members of the CPAd faculty.
The opening remarks were delivered by Dr. Cid Javier, OIC-Dean of CPAd, who welcomed attendees to the launch, which also serves as the university’s culminating activity for National Women’s Month. He highlighted this year’s theme in connection with the launch of the lecture series, “Lead Like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”—a theme that honors the enduring legacy of Filipino women whose wisdom, courage, compassion, and integrity have shaped generations of leadership and service.
In his message, President Cadorna emphasized the importance of not only recognizing the contributions of women like Gabriela Silang but also creating spaces for dialogue, learning, and empowerment within the academic community. He expressed hope that the lecture series will inspire a new generation of gender-responsive leaders.
Meanwhile, VPAA Navarro underscored the importance of mainstreaming gender across the curriculum, highlighting the Gabriela Lecture Series as a concrete step toward this goal. He emphasized that initiatives like this help students develop a gender lens at an early stage, shaping more inclusive and socially aware future professionals.
The Gabriela Lecture Series is named after Maria Josefa Gabriela Cariño Silang, the Ilocana revolutionary who led the fight for independence after the death of her husband, Diego Silang. Gabriela, known as “La Generala,” defied gender norms of her time, leading troops in revolt against Spanish colonial forces—a powerful testament to what women are capable of. Her courage and leadership continue to inspire advocacy for gender equality today.
“Gabriela Silang represents leadership that is bold, transformative, and unyielding,” said Atty. Katrynn Eder, Director of the Center for Gender and Development, who gave an overview of what the series is envisioned to be. “This lecture series is not only about remembering the past—it is about connecting that past to present realities, recognizing that the challenges faced by the Ilocana heroine centuries ago still persist today, albeit in more complex forms. It calls on us to confront these issues, empower women, and challenge each of us to carry forward her legacy in our respective fields.”
The inaugural lecture featured Police Lieutenant Colonel Beverly Magastino, who shared her experiences navigating a male-dominated institution in public service. She emphasized that being a woman is not a hindrance to leadership, noting that what matters most is standing firm in one’s convictions. Her journey, organizers noted, exemplifies resilience, leadership, and the breaking of barriers—values at the heart of the Gabriela Lecture Series. Emphasizing the essence of principled leadership, she stated, “True leadership is service above self; integrity over convenience.”
Ms. Renee Grace Tungpalan led the recitation of the Pledge for Gender Equality, with students, employees, and guests standing in unity, affirming their shared commitment to advocacy and action. The closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Lorraine Madera, who emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to create inclusive and equitable spaces for women in all sectors.
Hosted this year by the College of Public Administration, the series will rotate annually among different colleges and administrative units, promoting inclusive conversations on gender across various disciplines. The Center for Gender and Development will continue to lead the initiative, ensuring that programs like the Gabriela Lecture Series inspire meaningful action and lasting change.
