Adverse circumstances have long been a component of women’s lives in the Philippines, with defending, advancing, and pushing for their rights being a continual struggle given that not everyone recognizes their value and persists to dismiss the contributions they can offer to the nation’s honor.
Along with the ongoing crusade to let the world know that women are not just the light in a home nor the head of the household, but rather a sturdy pillar of every aspiration and an embodiment of determination that even if it is a long way to go for women, there are plenty of routes that may open up and pave way for their empowerment—many have been stepping up, expanding beyond the line, and committing their entire being for it.
One of the most active women in the line is Atty. Anna Cristina V. Collantes-Garcia, also regarded as Atty. Cristine, who performs relentlessly to go further her profession. She is said to be proficient in public bidding of governmental assets and has represented both domestic and foreign clients in multiple dealings, with a specialization in banking, finance, energy, and infrastructure projects.
She pushed extensively to get where she is today, receiving a bachelor’s degree from the University of the Philippines, a Juris Doctorate from the Ateneo de Manila, and admission to both the Philippine and New York bars.
Apart from being a lawyer, she has an immense allegiance to public service, potentially derived from her familial heritage, particularly her dad, Nelson “Sonny” Collantes, the City Mayor of Tanauan, and her mother, Ma. Theresa “Maitet” Collantes, Congresswoman for the Third District, both Batangas incumbent leaders.
Atty. Cristine’s parents were not only incumbents, but they also served for numerous years in the service of people. Countless have testified that Mayor Sonny and Congresswoman Maitet instilled their children at a young age about the significance of being an instrument for someone else’s dream.
Being the eldest of five, she continues to deliver exemplary dedication to the people by functioning as President of the Tanauan City Women’s Coordinating Council and focusing on programs and activities for other women in the city. She is also the Executive Vice President of the Provincial Women Coordinating Council Batangas, Inc. In lieu of the leadership roles she currently holds, she thrives on fostering livelihood programs for women with the assistance of the local government led by his visionary father.
A lot of people have shared their gratitude and praise for Atty. Cristine’s tireless efforts, notably in offering training and equipment that allows people to master expertise in meat processing, siomai making, dishwashing soap making, candle making, and more.
With these facts, she is one of the most empowered women in this era, not only due to her brainpower but also because of her spirited heart, which remains at 100% to provide a Filipina with chances to nurture their capabilities and exceed their own high standards.
One thing is certain now: may we become Atty. Cristine in our own humble ways—not only by empowering ourselves, but by empowering every woman in the world. Let us persevere to navigate the waters of uncertainty and struggle until we reach our peak as women!
Photo Courtesy: CGTV