BIOGRAPHY

Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, born on April 5, 1947, in San Juan, Metro Manila, is the daughter of former President Diosdado Macapagal and Evangelina Macaraeg. She excelled in her studies, graduating valedictorian from Assumption Convent and later earning advanced degrees in economics, including a doctorate from the University of the Philippines. Before entering politics, she worked as a professor of economics and served as under‑secretary and secretary in trade and industry. Arroyo was elected senator in 1992, vice president in 1998, and assumed the presidency in 2001, serving until 2010. Her presidency steered the Philippines through economic reforms, infrastructure projects, and political turbulence. After her presidency, she continued to serve in the House of Representatives and became Speaker of the House.