WOMEN Extension Project Leader Dr. Rhea Fabrica uncovers her book “Still Women” as part of Cebu Technological University’s Women’s Month celebration, held at the Main Campus Library — Children’s Zone on March 18, 2026.
Headed by University Librarian Ms. Morena E. Carlos, the book-launching event gathered faculty members, university officials, and multi-disciplinary women representatives.
The event was graced by the presence of the Vice President for Production, Extension, and Resource Generation, Dr. Rosein A. Ancheta Jr.; College of Arts and Sciences Extension Chair, Dr. Simeon C. Bernados Jr.; and University Director for Gender and Development, Dr. Mary Jane C. Sim.
Bringing together local representatives for future project initiatives, Still Women was introduced to Cebu City public servants, including Barangay Ermita Captain Hon. Rizaldy Miral and Barangay Cambinocot Captain, Hon. Reynald Lauron.
To emphasize the cooperation with the WOMEN Menopause Project, CVCCO representatives were also formally welcomed, namely Ma. Victoria Abellana, Annette Tiu, and Noli Bcurnay.
The program was not just a book-launching event, but also a heart-centered gathering aimed at acknowledging the courage and resiliency of women amidst menopausal stage. With Dr. Fabrica’s literary representation, women are esteemed as symbols of fortitude, defying the trials of aging.
“Still Women”: Telling the stories of women’s silent battles
Behind the pages of Still Women is a story not often told in public—women’s silent battles during the menopausal stage.
Still Women is a collection of narratives based on the experiences of women from different walks of life who share a common struggle: menopause. The book presents stories that reflect women’s physical, emotional, and social challenges, as well as their resilience and strength as they continue to fulfill their roles in their families and communities.
Dr. Fabrica shared that the inspiration for the book came from her personal experiences and community engagement. From witnessing her grandmother’s menopausal symptoms to later learning from colleagues and women in the community, she realized that menopause is a topic rarely discussed, especially among women in economically challenged communities.
“It is another problem other than… ‘Do I still need to tell my husband that I’m experiencing this? Wa man gani mi sud-an, wa man gani mi kan-on, unya muingon pa jud ko nga galabad akong ulo, nga naa’y nagkuan sa akong ear, [or there is] a ringing in my ear.’” Dr. Fabrica shared, explaining that many women choose to remain silent about their condition due to financial difficulties.
Through the WOMEN Extension Project, Dr. Fabrica conducted community engagement and research among women, particularly in urban poor communities, where many experience symptoms such as anxiety, heart palpitations, hair thinning, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. However, due to the lack of awareness and support, many women do not recognize that these are symptoms of menopause.
These realities inspired the characters in Still Women. One of them is Nora, a lesbian in a long-term same-sex relationship who continues to sell food in Colon despite experiencing physical and emotional struggles. Another character is Mitch from the story “Hormones Room 312,” who was once physically and mentally active but began experiencing brain fog and difficulty performing daily tasks, yet continues to work and support herself.
Dr. Fabrica explained that the stories reflect women’s determination to continue fulfilling their responsibilities despite the challenges brought by menopause. “Same with Nora, I am also trying to prove to myself that I can still do it,” she said, emphasizing women’s resilience and strength.
More than a work of fiction, Still Women serves as an advocacy piece that gives voice to women whose experiences are often unheard. The book also highlights the importance of awareness, understanding, and support from families and communities for women going through the menopausal stage.
Through Still Women and the WOMEN Extension Project, Dr. Fabrica hopes to encourage more conversations about menopause, promote awareness, and create supportive environments for women going through this stage of life—reminding society that women remain strong, capable, and resilient at every stage of life./Faith Hyacinth Pacquiao – CTU Main BAL Intern
