FORMING WOMEN LEADERS: THE EFFECTS AND INFLUENCES OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION IN THE PHILIPPINES

This study explores the extent to which Catholic education affected and influenced the formation of women leaders in the Philippines. Rooted in the distinctive nature of Catholic education, the research focused on Moral Formation in the Faith, Search for Excellence towards Service, Respect for Human Dignity, Solidarity with the Community, and Education for the Common Good. It examines how moral formation in the faith contributed to the ethical and moral disposition of women leaders. It also explored the pursuit of excellence towards service and considered the values of respect for human dignity, solidarity with the community, and the education of the common good, especially in addressing the preferential option for the poor. A key focus of this study is leadership as a sacramental vision drawing on Jesus Christ’s examples as a model for leadership formation, emphasising the principles of discerning authority, servant leadership, and inclusive leadership. Given the historical and cultural significance of women leaders in the Philippines, the study also highlights their evolving roles in leadership across different historical periods. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research employs both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, triangulating survey data, interviews, and literature review to capture a holistic perspective on Catholic education’s impact. The study identifies key variables influencing leadership development, including formal faith formation, extra-curricular engagements, and the role of educators. Additionally, external factors such as family influence and societal context are examined as potential contributors to leadership formation. Findings indicate that Catholic education fosters leadership qualities through faith-based moral guidance, structured educational programmes, and experiential learning. The study also identifies challenges and limitations, including variations in educational experiences and external socio-cultural factors. Ultimately, this research underscores the importance of Catholic education in forming leaders who embody the Christian values of discernment, service-oriented leadership, and inclusivity. Recommendations for further research and educational policy reforms are provided to strengthen Catholic education’s role in leadership formation and development.