Education:
- Established Centro Escolar University: In 1907, de Ungria co-founded Centro Escolar University (CEU) in Manila, Philippines, which became one of the leading private universities in the country. As the first woman president of CEU, she led the institution through significant growth and expansion, establishing numerous academic programs and contributing to the development of higher education in the Philippines.
- Curriculum Development: De Ungria played a crucial role in curriculum development and educational reforms. She advocated for a holistic education that emphasized critical thinking, social responsibility, and the integration of Filipino culture into the educational system.
Leadership:
- Pioneered Women's Leadership: De Ungria was a trailblazing female leader in a predominantly male-dominated society. As the first woman president of Centro Escolar University, she challenged societal norms and paved the way for other women to pursue leadership roles in education and various fields.
- National Leadership Positions: De Ungria held several prominent leadership positions in the Philippines. She served as president of the National Federation of Women's Clubs and was the first woman appointed as a member of the Board of Regents of the University of the Philippines.
Women's Rights Advocacy:
- Advocacy for Suffrage: De Ungria was a passionate advocate for women's suffrage. She actively campaigned and organized suffragist movements, playing a crucial role in securing women's right to vote in the Philippines in 1937.
- Established Gabaldon Memorial School for Girls: In 1908, she founded Gabaldon Memorial School for Girls, one of the first educational institutions in the country dedicated to providing quality education to young Filipina women.
Educational Publications:
- Author and Editor: De Ungria authored and edited several educational publications and textbooks on various subjects, including history, geography, and home economics. Her works contributed to enriching educational materials and resources available in the Philippines.
Awards and Recognitions:
- National Artist for Literature: In 1989, de Ungria was conferred the prestigious title of National Artist of the Philippines for Literature, recognizing her outstanding achievements and contributions to Philippine literature and education.
- Posthumous Honors: After her passing, de Ungria continued to be honored for her contributions. In 2013, she was featured on a postage stamp issued by the Philippine Postal Corporation, commemorating her legacy as a pioneering educator and women's rights advocate.
Ma. Corazon A. de Ungria left an enduring legacy as an educator, leader, and advocate for women's rights in the Philippines. Her unwavering commitment to education and social progress, as well as her pioneering spirit, continue to inspire future generations in their pursuit of excellence, leadership, and equality.