PWC of Davao Employees “Mourn”
March 31, 2023
Wearing black today, majority of the employees of the Philippine Women’s College (PWC) of Davao stage a silent protest against usurpation of power in what is supposed to be a very peaceful institution.
As PWC celebrates its 70th founding anniversary this year, the once-quiet school has become the center of controversy when a renegade portion of its Board of Trustees (BOT) allegedly appointed a “President” that the employees and stakeholders do not recognize. At the center of this is the self-appointed president, Mr. Emmanuel Canivel, who is also a member of the BOT. He claims to be backed by two other members of the Board, mother and son tandem of Ruby and Tomas Julio Benitez in a signed memorandum addressed to the employees.
They said that they would have remained on the sideline had it not been to the recent actions of Canivel’s group. Among this include the withholding of the employees’ salary, putting up of a new set of armed security personnel, and harassment to let them feel the power. One employee who requested to remain anonymous said that Ms. Gina Bequiso, who unashamedly expressed that salaries are being withheld and even remarked that they can bring the matter to any office. Ms. Bequiso’s probationary status as Finance Head ended earlier but she was rehired supposedly by Mr. Canivel.
The PWC employees thought that such intra-corporate dispute would remain among the BOT members but they were overtaken by events that have dragged them down affecting the smooth operation of the school and scheduled classes. They said that the events have gravely affected their morale.
Meanwhile, BOT Chair Ms. Elizabeth San Pedro Lietz, earlier issued a statement to clarify to all stakeholders that the status quo has to be maintained. This means that the current organizational setup of the PWC of Davao should continue until issues have been resolved; thereby making Prof. Vicente Antonio V. Pijano III, the current Chancellor and COO, the legitimate officer of the school. This strengthens the non-recognition of the employees of a new president.
The PWC has recently reorganized its expanded BOT from five to ten and have elected new set of officers. Still in the BOT are Ms. Leitz (Chair), Mrs. Benitez, Mr. Benitez, and Mr. Canivel. New members include Mary Jude B. Icasiano, Madeline D. Marfori, Dimple T. Dumandagan, Emil L. Englis (Treasurer), Maria Nancel S. Lanticse, Norjames S. Goad. The other officers of the Corporation are Atty. Robert A. Hernandez (Corporate Secretary), Vicente Antonio V. Pijano III, Deogracia B. Corpuz, Alma Rose B. Bersamo, and Maria Alma G. Facto.
The late Francisca, Conrado, and Helena Benitez have been recognized as the founders of PWC together with some families of Davao City 70 years ago. The institution is actually a private, non-stock, non-profit entity that is not owned by any of the founders but by the stakeholders such as employees, alumni, parents, and Davao community among others.
Current Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer, Prof. Vicente Antonio V. Pijano, has thanked the PWC employees for being steadfast and encouraged them to remain calm to maintain peace and order. He also extended his apologies to everyone as they are caught in the middle of the intra-corporate dispute.
###
Hospitality Management students triumphed at MAFBEX
The PWC of Davao continues its tradition of excellence as its Hospitality Management students triumphed at the Manila Foods and Beverages Expo (MAFBEX) Interschool Competitions, held from May 8th to 11th at the SMX Convention Center Davao.
10th DACUN Youth Leadership Summit
The DACUN Office of Student Affairs (OSA) Committee successfully held the 10th DACUN Youth Leadership Summit in partnership with New Breakthrough Consultancy on April 22–23, 2025, at the PWC RSM Events Center. With the theme “A Decade of Transformational Leadership,” the summit brought together student leaders from various colleges and universities across the region for two days of collaboration, dialogue, and leadership-building activities.
(Photo Credit: The Rock)
#DACUNYouthLeadershipSummit
Sexual And Mental Health Awareness
The PWC Human Resource Development Office and the PWC Health Center collaborated to host a seminar on Sexual Health and Mental Health Awareness on May 2, 2025, at the RSM Events Center. Facilitated by Ms. Pricilla M. Senoc, a Health Education Promotion Officer III from the Davao City CHO, the session engaged faculty and staff on the importance of sexual and mental well-being.
DOT-XI and DA-XI Partner with PWC of Davao for “Buwan ng Kalutong Pilipino” Celebration
The Department of Tourism-XI and the Department of Agriculture-XI proudly partnered with the Philippine Women’s College of Davao through its Hospitality and Tourism Management programs for a vibrant “Buwan ng Kalutong Pilipino” celebration from April 25-27, 2025, at Ayala Malls Abreeza.
Boetheia Psyche Patriots Secure Victory at CPCD Days 2025
The Boetheia Psyche Patriots of the PWC – Psychology Department proudly represented the institution during the Collegiate Psychology Club of Davao (CPCD) Days held on April 6 and 13, 2025. With active participation in all major events, the team showcased exceptional talent and sportsmanship — ultimately earning the title of 2nd Runner-Up for Overall Champion.
EMI ENGLIS is one of this year’s Garbo sa Dabaw 2025
EMI ENGLIS is one of this year’s Garbo sa Dabaw (Pride of Davao) Awardees for the Arts, a prestigious honor presented during the Pasidungog event, which celebrates Davao’s founding anniversary at the SMX Convention Center.
Mindanao Trade Expo 2025
A tripartite partnership aimed at enhancing fashion, home, and lifestyle products using the Maguindanao Inaul was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the opening of the Mindanao Trade Expo Araw ng Dabaw 2025 edition at Abreeza Ayala Mall. The MOU signing was attended by Dr. Rosevic Cembrano, President of the Mindanao Trade Expo Foundation, Inc.; Romeo Diocolano, Provincial Director of the Maguindanao Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism; and Emi Englis, Director of the PWC Davao Center for Innovation and Social Ventures and President of the Davao Fashion and Design Council Foundation, Inc., who represented PWC Chancellor Vicente Antonio Pijano III.
PWC Basic Education Family Day
amilies, fun, and unforgettable moments! The PWC Basic Education Family Day at RSM Events Center was a blast, bringing learners and parents together for a day of laughter, games, and bonding. Seeing everyone join in the activities and enjoy quality time together made the celebration extra special. Thanks to everyone who joined in the fun! See you again next year!