Zonta Club of Laguna advances health and education through collaborative initiatives

The Zonta Club of Laguna, Philippines, continued its commitment to community service by supporting the Sangguniang Kabataan – LNK 2025 initiative “Alagang SK: Bantay Ngiti, Bantay Kalusugan,” at Lower Manggahan Court in Barangay Sampaguita. Volunteer dentists and physicians provided free dental checkups, medical consultations and health education to youth and families, emphasizing preventive care, oral hygiene and nutrition. The outreach helped improve access to healthcare while strengthening community awareness of early detection and wellness practices. The activity formed part of the club’s Smilestrong program, which promotes health and youth empowerment.

Continuing its focus on community wellbeing, the next month, the club joined the San Pedro City Triskelion Council for a blood donation activity at Robinsons Galleria South. The initiative highlighted the importance of collective action and volunteerism in providing critical support to patients in need of blood transfusions. Club members emphasized that each donation represents compassion, solidarity and the shared goal of building healthier communities.

Expanding its efforts to empower young people through education, the Zonta Club of Laguna partnered with the Congressional Office of Congresswoman Ann Matibag to support 589 college students during a CHED orientation and scholarship payout in San Pedro City. Each scholar received ₱7,500 per semester to help ease financial barriers to higher education, allowing students to remain focused on their academic goals. The event also included free meals and games to celebrate students’ achievements and encourage continued perseverance.

In addition to supporting youth and families, the club turned its attention to the well-being of senior citizens during Elderly Filipino Week. Partnering with the MOB Foundation 2003 Inc., the San Pedro City Medical Society and local leaders, the club hosted an event to raise awareness about dementia and promote mental wellness. Resource speaker Dr. Julie Anne Espino-Estanislao guided mental health and dementia care for 269 elderly participants, while games and social activities created a joyful and meaningful experience for attendees. Through these initiatives, the Zonta Club of Laguna reaffirmed its commitment to health promotion and compassionate community service.