The University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD), together with the International Consortium for Social Development (ICSD), held the 10th ICSD Asia Pacific Biennial Conference with the theme “The Fifth Industrial Revolution Amidst Multifaceted Disruptions: Harnessing the Power of Social Development” last 23 to 24 October 2024 at the Bulwagang Tandang Sora, UP College of Social Work and Community Development. The conference brought together development practitioners, academics, and policymakers that fostered discussions and partnerships in the field of social development.
Hon. Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen, Senior Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, delivered a keynote address that emphasized the critical role of social justice in technological and economic progress. He highlighted that innovation should prioritize inclusivity and sustainability to address the multifaceted disruptions impacting society today.
Dr. Maria Lourdes T. Jarabe, the Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) – Diploma in Women and Development (DWD) program chair, was among the distinguished panel speakers on 24 October 2024. She presented a study titled “Breaking the Glass Ceiling?: A Narrative Analysis of the Challenges and Successes of Women in Leadership Positions in the Philippine Technology Startup Ecosystem (PTSE),” co-authored with Assoc. Prof. Finaflor F. Taylan, DProfSt, RSW and Asst. Prof. Lloyd Lyndel Simporios from the Diploma in and Master of Social Work Programs of FMDS. The study examined the experiences of women leaders in the male-dominated PTSE, focusing on the challenges they encounter and the strategies they employ to succeed. Through a narrative analysis approach, the research highlights the stories of three Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) from Baguio, Cebu, and Iligan, along with two leaders from technology business incubators (TBIs). The findings of the study revealed that these women, many mentored by male allies, use self-study, mentorship, and experiential learning to thrive despite facing work-life balance issues, technical growth challenges, and networking hurdles. These women rely on multitasking, time management, and support systems to navigate their roles, which they see as opportunities to foster inclusivity, inspire future women leaders, and enhance diversity in PTSE.
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Dr. Jarabe’s session highlighted that these women leaders are not only breaking through systemic barriers but also playing a pivotal role in reshaping the PTSE’s cultural landscape. Her discussion added depth to the gender and leadership factors in technology, emphasizing the impact of supportive networks and mentorship in developing sustainable pathways for women leaders. Dr. Jarabe’s presentation is in line with the Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality.
The conference concluded with a renewed commitment from all participants to advance social development amid complex global challenges. The conference provided an invaluable opportunity for knowledge exchange, strategic partnerships, and a collective vision for a more inclusive, resilient future in the era of the Fifth Industrial Revolutio
Written by Denise Therese Anne Palisoc ♦ Edited by Maria Lourdes Jarabe and Larry N. Cruz ♦ Crossposted from FMDS Website
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