This Women’s Month, we are not just celebrating the power of women but also the impact they have on the Cebuano community.
From sparking new laws in heels to bridging innovations and painting new landscapes across various industries—these Cebuanas did it all!
Mika Adarna
Championing Creativity & Sustainability
In a world with increased awareness on environmental issues, Mika Adarna is one who stands out championing slow fashion through her innovative business – the studiocollective. By promoting responsible shopping and creative dressing, she actively contributes to reducing textile waste in Cebu. Her brand empowers fashion lovers to make conscious choices, offering versatile, multiway pieces that not only save money but also protect the planet. This goal aligns with a growing movement towards sustainability, making a great impact on the local community and beyond.
I decided to fill the gap in Cebu—creating stylish, versatile, and well-fitted pieces for everyone.
Mika’s idea sprouted from her love of fashion and the mere frustration she had as she discovered day by day the lack of quality multiway pieces that’s inclusive for all sizes in the local scene. Therefore, she aimed to bridge the gap in fashion and make her own clothing line that motivates everybody to be creative and embrace sustainability while being stylish.
Attorney Regal Oliva
With Heels on Transparency & Equality
Digitization, the key to efficiency and transparency, believed Attorney Regal Oliva. During our interview, she emphasized the importance of modernizing processes especially as she continues to lead the City Treasurer Office of Mandaue. Beyond financial governance, Attorney Oliva also championed inclusivity, advocating for women, children, the LGBTQ+ community, the Senior Citizens, single parents, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Change begins when we refuse to accept limitations.
By pushing for digital transformation in governance and standing up for marginalized sectors, Oliva is set to work toward a future where efficiency, progress, and equality go hand in hand. As she runs for being the Representative of Mandaue’s Lone District, more and more laws and policies that uplift communities, ensure economic resilience, and protect rights of the marginalized will be expected for the road ahead. “Cebu can expect a leader who listens, a servant who acts, and a changemaker who never backs down from a fight for justice and equality,” shared Oliva.
Michelle Rose Perez Lopez
On Serving As a Beacon of Hope One Brew At a Time
“We give all glory to God,” shared Michelle as we enjoyed a weekday afternoon coffee. Her journey, along with her family was something that anyone can find inspirational as it was a journey of transformation.
Although she initially ventured into the maritime industry, her path took a transformative turn when she, along with her husband Carlo, established local brands like Sebu Cha Café, Uncle Brew Philippines, and Everyday Coffee & Tea. Through these businesses, she has made significant contributions to the community: creating job opportunities for out-of-school youth and parents facing job market challenges, supporting local farmers by sourcing high-quality coffee beans directly and promoting sustainable practices, and collaborating with local manufacturers to spark mutual growth and success.
Navigating life in a world full of uncertainties, I’ve realized that I could at least be a small speck of hope for someone facing the struggles I once did.
In the coming years, Michelle promises to continue serving with integrity, supporting local businesses, and advocating for fair practices. As an “Au-some” mom, she aims to raise awareness for autism and further assist seafarer families. With her heart set on helping Cebu grow, she embodies the spirit of change and empowerment, reminding us that even small efforts can lead to big impacts on other’s lives.
Karla Victoria Cortes
On Using Her Voice for Change
With a strategic arm of governance, Karla Victoria Cortes serves as the voice of Mandaue in moving towards a city that speaks with one clear voice; a voice that resonates, informs, and empowers. Being a recipient of the Stevie Award proved that Karla, as the City Information Officer of Mandaue and formerly working as part of its Public Information Office, was able to improve and strengthen the local governance with international standards.
Public service and communication are two sides of the same coin—one cannot exist effectively without the other.
From grassroots initiatives to fostering a culture of volunteerism, Karla ensures that each day, her team has a simple goal: make service second nature.
Service was never a foreign concept to me; it was an instinct.
Her background in healthcare, PR, communications, and marketing all converged into one purpose: to serve, inform, and empower. As Karla pushes for an even dynamic Mandaue, she highlights the value of keeping an unwavering commitment to truth, transparency, and service, “Because at the end of the day, it’s never been about being seen—it’s about making sure the people in the communities are heard.”
Logan Echavez
A Changemaker in Cebu’s Media and Sports Landscape
With over 23 years of experience as a media practitioner, Logane Echavez became a key figure in shaping Cebu’s media landscape through her work at SunStar. Her journey from being an Account Executive to becoming the Head of Sales and Marketing set her with diverse skills that she used to contribute meaningfully to the industry and to the Cebuano community.
One of her most impactful contributions has been her commitment to mentoring the next generation of media professionals. Through SunStar’s internship programs, Logane provided students with invaluable hands-on experience in media, sales, and marketing. Beyond that, she also is passionate about sports development as she leads the Sugbo Softball Association focusing on supporting the sport’s grassroots programs by providing essential gear and equipment to elementary and high school teams, and by organizing clinics, tournaments, and collaborations with other softball organizations.
Being a Cebuana Changemaker is not just about what I do, it’s about who I uplift along the way. It’s about turning passion into action and inspiring others to believe that even small steps can create lasting change. She is not just a woman of influence, she is a woman of impact.
Looking ahead, Logane remains firm in her dedication to community growth and empowerment. In the realm of media, she plans to continue embodying innovation, mentoring young talents, and ensuring that platforms like SunStar serve as collaborative spaces for aspiring professionals. While in sports, she aims to provide greater opportunities for young athletes through training clinics, tournaments, and partnerships.
Anne Ruiz
Embodying Resilience Through Art
Through her platform, ARUIZ Art & Inspiration, Anne promotes creative expression as a means of empowerment and healing, after overcoming cancer. She continues to be a passionate advocate for the therapeutic power of art, believing it plays a vital role in enhancing mental and emotional well-being.
In addition to leading art workshops and sharing motivational stories, she has showcased her work in various art exhibitions, further presenting the importance of artistic expression. And, as a co-founder of the Student Life Organization, she gets to focus on providing help to students for them to overcome life’s obstacles, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive in their educational journeys.
Through my story of resilience and living in God’s grace, I aim to offer hope and strength.
Anne views her role as more than just a responsibility; it’s a calling that reflects her belief in the power of collective action and positive change. Establishing the organization from the ground up presents its own set of challenges, requiring Anne and the whole team to be persistent with determination, creativity, and resilience.
With Anne leading at the helm, the future looks promising for both the arts and student advocacy in Cebu with her strength that inspires many and sparks new beginnings in the community.
Alem Garcia
On Being A Catalyst for Change
Being a multifaceted individual, Alem Gracia and her advocacy on promoting education, mental health awareness, and LGBTQIA+ rights shapes the Cebuano content creation industry.
Growing up, she sought role models who extended their impact beyond superficial measures of success like popularity and wealth. This led her to understand the importance of advocacy and establish a personal mission: to use his platform to uplift others once given the opportunity. With a decade of experience in the entertainment and content creation industry in Cebu, she takes pride in consistently aligning her work with her advocacy, setting a strong example for others to follow.
I always believe that the power of influence is not only determined by digits and engagements. Its strength is also defined and measured by knowing where you stand.
As she looks to the future, Alem seems herself to be in constant growth and with increased community involvement. Her commitment to fostering positive change in Cebu remains steadfast, and she aims to expand her impact through various initiatives and collaborations, proving that Alem is not just an artist but a catalyst for meaningful change in the community.
Dr. Aileen Que Esteves-Custodio
A Superwoman Advocating for Anti-Violence Against Women and Children
Who needs Wonder Woman when Cebuanos have Dr. Aileen leading the charge against violence toward women and children? A true superwoman, she passionately advocates for Anti-Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC), dedicating her life to breaking the silence surrounding various forms of abuse and giving a voice to those who have suffered. Her impact transcends the confines of her profession, making her a formidable force in both the medical and legal arenas.
As an obstetrician-gynecologist (OBGYNE), Dr. Aileen not only meets the medical needs of her patients but also plays a pivotal role in supporting victims of violence. Her commitment extends beyond healthcare; she actively participates in the courtroom, where her presence serves as a powerful testament to her unwavering dedication to justice. By standing up for victims and sharing their stories, she sheds light on their experiences, challenging societal norms that often perpetuate silence and stigma.
I’ve heard and seen unspeakable things relating to women’s health and violence which became the reason why I have a strong inclination to keep my advocacy. I want to empower women!
Now, Dr. Aileen is set to further revolutionize women’s health by launching her gyne-aesthetics clinic where she will be offering gynecological aesthetic services, helping to break the stigma surrounding women’s health issues. With her tireless efforts, Dr. Aileen continues to be a catalyst for change, inspiring others to join the fight for justice and empowerment in the lives of women and children in Cebu.
These women are not only breaking barriers in their own ways but also raising the voices of the marginalized and calling for a better future. Let us celebrate their success, and take a stand with them by volunteering with local organizations, shopping at women-owned businesses, and raising our voices to speak for change. Your voice matters—use it to empower others and fight for a cause.
