GIRLZ TALK: Dalaga Ka Na, Suportado Kita

In celebration of National Women’s Month, the Zonta Club of Tuguegarao, Philippines, in partnership with The Apple Tree School, Inc (TATATS) and its Pupil Government Council (PGC), held the third annual “GIRLZ TALK: Dalaga Ka Na, Suportado Kita,” a program designed to support and educate young girls during their transition into adolescence.

Led by PGC President Chelsea Kim C. Sabdo and Vice President Monique Shameika Seguro, the event featured peer-led discussions under the guidance of advisers Teachers Angel and Jhona. The initiative demonstrated the impact of youth leadership and community collaboration in fostering safe and informative spaces for students.

Key speakers included Zontian Herita Oandasan Macarrubo, DPA, former Regional Director of the Commission on Population and Development and Club Vice President, and Zontian Dr. Trician Jan Taguba-Villarosa, RMT, FPOGS, GAD Focal Person at CSU College of Medicine. They addressed topics on puberty, menstrual health and hygiene, and the psychological and social support needed during adolescence.

A vital segment of the program focused on “Good Touch, Bad Touch,” which educated students on body safety and setting personal boundaries. This core advocacy of the club seeks to equip youth with tools to recognize and respond to inappropriate behavior.

Promoting inclusivity, this year’s session welcomed 23 male and 14 female students, along with parents and guardians, emphasizing the role of both boys and girls in advancing gender equality and respect.

Now in its third year, “GIRLZ TALK: Dalaga Ka Na, Suportado Kita” continues to reinforce the club's commitment to empowerment, advocacy and education—building a future where every child grows up informed, confident and supported.