CAPSUNIAN ECHO

 PADAYON: WENDY EUNICE DUNTOG’S LILAC AWARD TRIUMPH 

by Rhealyn G. Cala 

Graphics: Arjie O. Ledesma 

What Sets Women’s Leadership Apart?

Every March, the world celebrates women’s contributions to society, recognizing their rights, opportunities, and impact. Women have long demonstrated resilience, vision, and strength in leadership, challenging traditional biases along the way.

At Capiz State University (CAPSU) Burias, Wendy Eunice Pequeño Duntog, a third-year English major, embodies these qualities. On March 21, she was honored with the Ladies In Leadership, Advocacy & Community (LILAC) Award during the Purple Hour Month 2025 RCCWOI Culminating Event at Destiny City Church, Roxas City. This recognition celebrates her dedication to leadership and service, sending a powerful message to young women: refuse to be defined by limitations.

Like any journey, Ms. Duntog’s path to leadership was not without obstacles. Reflecting on her experiences, she shared:

“I have been told that from the very beginning, I wasn’t a good leader. I think I’m never going to overcome it, but I have to deal with it; I am not everyone’s cup of tea, so be it. Besides, they don’t know the hustle and bustle behind every failure or success. I have learned that leadership is subjective; I can’t please everyone.”

Her story highlights the common struggles women face in leadership—criticism, self-doubt, and societal expectations. However, she refuses to let these challenges define her.

Ms. Duntog also addresses the stereotypes surrounding female leaders:

“I think the biggest misconception about women is that they are emotional; they tend to act by their feelings but not their mind. But as we are now in this modern society, that misconception must slowly fade. It is really amazing that CAPSU is open and supportive of having women leaders like me.”

Her perspective reflects a broader movement advocating for gender equity in leadership, breaking outdated stereotypes that have long hindered women’s progress.

When asked what advice she would give to aspiring female leaders, Ms. Duntog shared a single yet profound word: Padayon—a Visayan term meaning to continue, to move forward.

“Padayon, this word has been my great advice to myself, and now, I want to share it with you. I know the journey may be tough, but it will pay off. Continue, a simple word but with great meaning; sometimes life gives us challenges; for you to overcome them, you have to padayon. Continue smiling, continue hustling, continue fighting, continue waking up in the morning, and continue dreaming.”

Her message resonates beyond leadership; it is a call to perseverance in all aspects of life. Padayon encapsulates Ms. Duntog's commitment empowered by her compassionate leadership, a kind that is exemplary. 

Beyond this recognition, Ms. Duntog holds several leadership positions: President of DRRRM-CARES, an Officer of Future Leaders of the Philippines (FLP) Burias Chapter, Associate Editor of Capsunian Echo, and an engaged student leader in her academic community. Her advocacy is not just about the titles she holds but about the positive impact she strives to make.

Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, vision, and determination. Through Padayon, she continues to inspire the next generation of women leaders to embrace challenges and push forward—undaunted, unstoppable, and unbreakable.