Zonta Club of Laguna continues to empower and bring hope to others

The Zonta Club of Laguna, Philippines, continued its commitment to service, advocacy and community engagement through a series of initiatives in early 2026, advancing its mission to build a better world for women and girls.

In celebration of National Women’s Month, the club, together with Zonta District 17 Area 5, participated in a flag-raising ceremony hosted by the Department of Justice at the DOJ Compound in Ermita, Manila on 30 March.

Congresswoman Ann Matibag, president of the Zonta Club of Laguna and chairperson of the Committee on Women and Gender Equality, served as the inspirational speaker. In her remarks, she emphasized the importance of empowering women and girls to take on leadership roles, break barriers and help shape a more inclusive and equitable society.

The ceremony also highlighted the #SheSays campaign, reinforcing the call for women to rise, lead and maximize their full potential. Following the program, Zonta International District 17 Area 5, together with JCI Damas de San Pedro, was recognized by Department of Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida for its commitment to advancing women’s rights, gender equality and community empowerment.

Earlier in the year, on 13 February, the club hosted an Autism Awareness Forum at Pacita Satellite, bringing together families, educators, therapists and advocates to promote inclusion and early support for children on the autism spectrum.

The discussion underscored the importance of early recognition of developmental signs and timely access to interventions such as speech and occupational therapy. The initiative aimed to equip parents and teachers with the knowledge needed to support children’s development both at home and in school.

The forum also highlighted legislative efforts led by Matibag to expand access to screening, therapy and comprehensive services for children with autism. Representatives from the Autism Society Philippines – Laguna Chapter joined participants in fostering dialogue, collaboration and community support.

In addition to the forum, the club conducted an outreach activity, distributing educational books, learning toys, food packs and special loot bags to children, providing both practical support and moments of joy for their families.

The club also organized a donation drive for the Day Care Center in Barangay Riverside, San Pedro City, Laguna, contributing educational toys, storybooks and a 43-inch smart TV to enhance the learning environment for young learners.

The donations are intended to support early childhood development by encouraging creativity, strengthening motor skills and promoting literacy, while the smart TV provides teachers with an additional tool for interactive and digital learning.

The club’s outreach efforts began earlier in the year with its first activity of 2026 on 11 January at Sitio Anak Pawis and Sitio Foam in Estrella, San Pedro, Laguna.

The program supported 104 families through gift-giving, interactive activities and the distribution of shoes and clothing. A shared meal provided an opportunity for members and families to connect, fostering a strong sense of community. The event concluded with expressions of gratitude from participating families.

The outreach was led by Dr. Mila Borabien and Dr. Cres Gacoba, alongside members of the Zonta Club of Laguna, whose collective efforts reflect the organization’s ongoing dedication to service, compassion and community empowerment.