Five remarkable Filipinas have made it to the prestigious Forbes 50 Over 50 Asia list this year, a testament to their exceptional contributions in various sectors. These inspiring women, ranging in age from 52 to 66, are redefining what it means to be over 50, showcasing this period as a time of innovation and leadership.
Actress Dolly de Leon, peace negotiator Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, Ayala Land President-CEO Anna Ma. Margarita B. Dy, Puregold co-founder Susan Co, and Medilink CEO-president Esther Go join the region’s best women over the age of 50 who have made their mark in their respective fields.
The game changers from the Philippines were named in the third edition of the Forbes best-of-list released in January 2024, which recognizes 50 women founders, CEOs, and innovators from 14 countries and territories in the Asia-Pacific region.
Dolly de Leon, 54: A Trailblazing Actress Dolly de Leon, a veteran actress, gained global recognition in 2023 as the first Filipina nominated for Best Supporting Actress at both the Golden Globe Awards and the British Academy Film Awards. Her powerful portrayal in the Cannes Festival Palme d’Or winner “Triangle of Sadness” highlighted the plight of Overseas Filipino Workers. Forbes notes that De Leon, balancing a thriving career with motherhood, is now a proud member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, 64: A Peace Advocate Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, renowned for her peace negotiation efforts, received the esteemed Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2023 for helping improve life in Asia. A key figure in resolving post-dictatorship conflicts, she played a significant role in the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro. Coronel-Ferrer, a former University of the Philippines professor, co-founded the Southeast Asian Women Peace Mediators in 2020, advocating for women’s roles in peace processes.
Anna Ma. Margarita Dy, 54: Real Estate Visionary Anna Ma. Margarita Dy, as Ayala Land’s first female President-CEO, is leading the second-largest property developer in the Philippines. This Harvard MBA graduate has been pivotal in launching various residential projects to address the growing housing demand. Her leadership and expertise have significantly impacted the real estate sector.
Susan Co, 66: Retail Sector Innovator Susan Co, a key figure in the retail industry, has expanded Puregold, a supermarket chain, to over 300 stores nationwide. As vice-chair of retail holding company Cosco Capital, she has diversified her business interests, including commercial real estate and liquor distribution. Forbes notes Co’s strategic acquisition of rival supermarket branches as showcasing her business acumen.
Esther Go, 52: Healthcare Technology Pioneer Esther Go, CEO and President of Medilink Networks Philippines, has revolutionized healthcare technology, connecting thousands of physicians with millions of patients. A Harvard MBA and former VP for CitiGroup in New York, Go’s leadership extends to other major corporations in the Philippines, proving her expertise in the field.
Last year, the Forbes list also highlighted Kickstart Ventures Philippines Cofounder-President Minette Navarrete, showcasing the continuous impact of game-changer Filipino women in the global arena.
Get the full list here:
Five Filipinas made it to the @ForbesAsia 50 Over 50 game changers in the Asia Pacific region proving the new golden age for women. Full story on @GoodNewsPinas_ #Philippines #leadership
See the full list here: https://t.co/grz6njKihf— Angie Quadra Balibay (@AngieQBalibay) January 24, 2024
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