A STRONG SENSE of empowerment towards women is palpable within the walls of San Beda University (SBU). However, do the roles merely symbolize superficial acceptance, or are women truly regarded as equals? 

From the series of interviews conducted by The Bedan with selected women leaders of SBU for Women’s Month, it’s becoming increasingly evident that a significant number of individuals occupying integral roles within the University are women. 

In line with the continuous achievements of each woman on their respective career—may it be in the academe, in sports, their skills, etc.—it becomes apparent that what men can do, women can do as well; living up to the refrain, “rising up to the occasion,” as their means for survival in a dominantly patriarchal society that we’re currently living in. 

But when will there come a time that these so-called “achievements” will no longer be considered as the sole proof of what a woman can do? 

Despite the efforts to promote gender equality, beliefs that are instilled about women’s roles and capabilities continue to shape societal expectations and opportunities. Take childhood beliefs, for instance. As young girls, we are taught to steer towards traditionally feminine pursuits, not to tackle responsibilities that only men should be obligated to do. Men on the other hand, are encouraged to take this responsibility—leadership and assertiveness. 

This is why, constantly, women have been defying societal expectations and shattering glass ceilings in fields contributing to groundbreaking moments in their lives. Along with the women of San Beda, from administrators, student-leaders, and student-athletes, their accomplishments pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future for the next generation. However, until when do women need to prove themselves worthy for the job solely because they are finally seen on equal lenses?  

Essentially, women should not earn the respect of a man because it should be given automatically. While it may sound cliché, it still stands considering the real issues persisting in the workplace.  

According to University of California professor Joan C. Williams and her daughter Rachel Dempsey’s research and book entitled, What Works for Women at Work, where the realities of the workplace are being discussed, one of the four patterns of gender bias in the workplace is “why women have to fight to be respected and liked at work.” This focused on the idea of a “tightrope.” According to the studies they’ve conducted, “almost ¾ of women encounter the tightrope, women have to navigate a very tight space, really a tightrope, being seen as too masculine and therefore respected but not liked or too feminine and therefore liked but not respected.” This is the kind of challenge that a woman faces every single day; but thank heavens, inferiority towards women is nonexistent inside SBU.  

There are a lot of women leaders in the University, not only the ones who got featured in this special issue. Some of the presidents of professional and non-professional organizations are also headed by women. Even student-leaders from organizations do have well-known women who serve as representatives of the students in their department and advocacies. Several well-known professors per department are women too. As you see, Bedan women have taken the mantle step up and take the job in leading and empowering other women—that if they were able to do it, then those in doubt can too. 

Ultimately in San Beda, you’re not just seen as a woman. You’re respected and seen as an equal, likened to how a lioness would never bow down to a lion. Both are of equal caliber, both appreciated, seen, and loved.