Roselle Monteverde leads women empowerment in entertainment industry

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 11) — Women were often stereotyped in films and television shows as weak, vulnerable, and powerless because of societal views towards them.

As times change, women are now assuming lead roles in most sectors of society and have proven that they can match or even outdo their male counterparts.

Among those female trailblazers who are making waves in their respective fields is Regal Entertainment chief operating officer Roselle Monteverde.

Monteverde told CNN Philippines her passion for writing and producing films is inspired by her mother, Lily—founder of Regal, and a legend in the Philippine entertainment industry for producing films of all genres for over five decades.

“Growing up, I would see my mom working and her passion for making films. Her passion is so magnanimous, which is I think it’s hard for me to achieve her accomplishments,” Monteverde said.

Monteverde took a different approach when she was tasked to lead Regal, starting with the portrayal of women in movies.

She emphasized female characters are now more independent, uplifting, and a fighter that defied the odds despite different views towards them.

“Character development in women is so important, it has to be inspirational. At first, you could see them struggling. But at the end of the story, you’ll see them as winning,” Monteverde said. “They have to be aspiring women.”

Behind the cameras, Monteverde said women assume bigger production roles such as directing, producing, and scriptwriting. Other female production members are also now in charge to prepare shoots and doing other clerical tasks.

Monteverde also emphasized that women should be celebrated as they are juggling their many responsibilities in this difficult time, from being a worker to a mother.

“This industry takes a longer period of work time. Juggling both economic needs and the time that you put in work makes it challenging now because here, kids are now studying online,” she said.

Monteverde also believes women are now capable of overcoming hurdles that come their way, and make a lasting mark in society.

“In our production, we stay away from stereotypes. It’s more about woman vs. woman now, claiming something that is for them,” the Regal Entertainment head said.