By Bev Llorente
LAS VEGAS—There are women who enter a room—and then there are those who shift its very energy. In The Impact Book, a powerful anthology curated by community leader Gloria Caoile, the spotlight turns to Filipina trailblazers who’ve done just that. These women have broken barriers in politics, business, and community service—all while replying to group chats and showing up in heels.
At the heart of this celebration is not just a collection of stories, but a reflection of resilience, courage, and transformation. And on this special episode of Ano Na Bev, we honor the women whose lives and legacies are woven into The Impact Book—an offering that does more than inspire; it uplifts, empowers, and reminds us all of what is possible.
“When you look back at your journey,” the conversation begins, “was there a single moment that changed everything for you—when you realized your voice, your purpose, or your impact?”
Each guest shared intimate moments of awakening—experiences that sparked their purpose and propelled them to leadership despite the odds. Through tears and laughter, the episode peeled back the layers behind public achievements to reveal personal sacrifices and steadfast hope.
“What kept you going,” I asked, “when giving up seemed easier?”
It’s a question many women wrestle with silently. Yet in this space, vulnerability became a badge of honor. What emerged were tales of deep faith, support systems, and an inner fire that refused to be extinguished.
Before moving forward, I couldn’t help but pause: “Can we all just take a moment to appreciate how incredible this studio is right now?” The atmosphere was electric—strong, brilliant, resilient women sitting shoulder-to-shoulder. It was living proof that even those we deem powerful didn’t always feel that way.
“Sometimes,” I said, “all it takes is one voice saying, ‘I see you. I believe in you.’ And that changes everything.”
As Ano Na Bev continued, we dove into the quieter stories—the unsung heroes who first believed in these women, the mentors who ignited self-worth, and the emotional journey of telling one’s truth in print.
“If a young girl reads your story today,” I asked gently, “what’s the one lesson you hope she carries with her?”
The answers were deeply moving. Some wished to teach courage, others, self-love. One thing was clear: these stories weren’t just about individual victories—they were blueprints for future generations.
Segment after segment, the stories stacked up like bricks in a legacy built by love and grit. The question “What does impact mean to you?” drew thoughtful silence, then honest answers—not as a buzzword, but in the quiet moments when no one is watching.
For many, impact meant mentoring others, showing up even when unseen, and making choices rooted in purpose. Others opened up about forgiving past versions of themselves and those who once stood in their way.
“To all the women still going through it,” I offered, “we see you. If it feels like everyone else has a character arc and you’re stuck in the pilot episode—trust that your comeback season is loading.”
Mascara may smudge. But the spirit? Waterproof.
The episode closed with a heartfelt conversation with Gloria Caoile, the woman behind The Impact Book. When asked what she discovered through this project, she didn’t just reflect on others’ stories, but on her own journey—her legacy, her purpose, and the gratitude she holds for those who shaped her voice.
“To the women featured,” I concluded, “you are the story. The light. The proof that from struggle, purpose is born.”
Gloria Caoile didn’t just collect stories—she preserved legacies. And in doing so, she’s empowered a new generation of Filipinas to stand taller, speak louder, and believe that yes—they, too, can make an impact
