This Women’s Month, let’s celebrate the incredible Filipinas who have forged their own paths in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). These women in STEM have broken barriers, inspired future generations, and proved that Filipina brilliance knows no bounds. Filipino parents, take note—your daughters can be the next leaders in these fields! Here are some of the most inspiring Filipinas making waves in STEM.
10 Women in STEM that forge their own paths in Science
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Dr. Fe Del Mundo – The First Woman in the Philippine Academy of Science
Dr. Fe Del Mundo was a pioneering pediatrician and the first woman admitted to Harvard Medical School. She dedicated her life to improving child healthcare in the Philippines and founded the country’s first pediatric hospital. Her contributions to medicine, including the development of a bamboo incubator for rural areas, saved countless lives and cemented her legacy as a trailblazer in STEM.
Image from
National Academy of Science and Technology website
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Dr. Carmencita Padilla – Champion of Genetic Research in the Philippines
A renowned geneticist, Dr. Carmencita Padilla has led initiatives in newborn screening and genetic disorders. Her work has helped detect and manage metabolic diseases early, significantly improving the quality of life for affected children. As a national scientist, she continues to advocate for medical genetics research and public health programs.
Image from
National Academy of Science and Technology website
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Josephine Santiago-Bond – A Filipina at NASA
Josephine Santiago-Bond is a name every aspiring scientist should know. She is an engineer who held a leadership role at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, proving that Filipinas can reach for the stars—literally. Her success in a male-dominated field serves as an inspiration for young girls dreaming of careers in space science and engineering.
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Dr. Reinabelle Reyes – The Astrophysicist Who Proved Einstein Right
Ever heard of the Filipina who confirmed Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity? That’s Dr. Reinabelle Reyes, an astrophysicist whose research made waves in the international scientific community. She continues to promote science education in the Philippines, encouraging young Filipinos to pursue careers in physics and space science.
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Maria Ylagan Orosa – The Food Technologist Who Saved Lives
A chemist and food technologist, Maria Ylagan Orosa revolutionized food science in the Philippines. She invented the process of making banana ketchup and created protein-rich food products that saved lives during World War II. Her work continues to impact Filipino cuisine and food security.
Image from National Park Service website
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Dr. Gemma Narisma – A Climate Scientist and Environmental Advocate
The late Dr. Gemma Narisma was a leading climate scientist who studied extreme weather patterns and climate change’s effects in the Philippines. She dedicated her career to environmental sustainability and disaster risk reduction, providing vital research to help the country prepare for climate-related disasters.
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Dr. Sandra Teresa Navarra – Leading the Fight Against Lupus
Dr. Sandra Teresa Navarra is a rheumatologist known for her extensive research on lupus. She has led groundbreaking studies that have improved lupus treatment and awareness in the Philippines. Her work has helped countless patients manage this chronic disease more effectively.
Image from DOST website
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Dr. Leticia E. Afuang – The Guardian of Philippine Wildlife
Dr. Leticia E. Afuang is a herpetologist dedicated to the study and conservation of reptiles and amphibians in the Philippines. Her research and advocacy efforts have been instrumental in protecting the country’s rich biodiversity and educating people on the importance of wildlife conservation.
Image from UPLB Museum of Natural History website
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Dr. Aimee Lynn Dupo – The Filipina Spider Scientist
An entomologist and arachnologist, Dr. Aimee Lynn Dupo specializes in studying insects and spiders in the Philippines. Her work contributes to ecological conservation and pest management, helping balance ecosystems and promote sustainable agriculture.
Image from University of the Philippines website
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Dr. Gay Jane Perez – The Filipina Making Waves in Space Science
Dr. Gay Jane Perez is a physicist whose research on satellite remote sensing is crucial for agricultural sustainability. She made history as the first Filipino to receive an award from the ASEAN-U.S. Science Prize for Women for her groundbreaking work in space technology and climate science.
Image from DOST website
Empowering the Next Generation of Filipina Scientists
These women in STEM have shown that intelligence, passion, and perseverance can break barriers. As Filipino parents, you have the power to encourage your daughters to explore STEM fields, pursue their interests, and make a difference in the world. Let’s support and celebrate the future generation of Filipina scientists, engineers, and innovators!
Who knows? The next big breakthrough in science might just come from a Filipina—maybe even your own child!
