As of 2025, there have been two female presidents of the Philippines, both of whom played crucial roles in shaping the nation’s political history. Their leadership marked milestones not only in Filipino governance but also in women’s empowerment across Southeast Asia.
The first among the female presidents of the Philippines was Corazon Aquino, who served from 1986 to 1992. She rose to power after leading the historic People Power Revolution, which peacefully ended the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos. Known as the “Mother of Philippine Democracy,” Aquino became the first female president not only in the Philippines but in all of Asia. Her presidency restored democratic institutions and inspired generations of women to take on leadership roles.
The second was Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who served as president from 2001 to 2010. She assumed office after the resignation of Joseph Estrada and later won a full term in the 2004 elections. Arroyo, the daughter of former President Diosdado Macapagal, brought with her an academic and economic background that she used to implement key reforms, especially in the areas of the economy and infrastructure. Before becoming president, she also served as the first female vice president of the Philippines.
Both women left lasting legacies and proved that Filipino women are capable of leading with strength and vision at the highest level of government.
These two leaders continue to stand as symbols of resilience, leadership, and democratic progress in the country’s modern political history.
