Zonta Club Muntinlupa and Environs' annual Christmas gift-giving “Pamaskong Handog”

The Zonta Club of Muntinlupa and Environs Foundation Inc, Philippines, held its annual Pamaskong Handog Gift-Giving Program on 5 December at San Pedro Calungsod Parish in Southville 3, bringing Christmas cheer, nourishment and community support to 100 children from the club’s Tulong Kontra Gutom feeding program.

The outreach was led by Club President Carol Nielsen, joined by PAD Odette Wallace, Director Price Enriquez, Pat Kennedy, guest Nancy Harrel, club volunteers and members of the Muntinlupa Golden Z Club, who assisted in running the program’s activities and ensuring a joyful, well-organized celebration.

Children participated in games and interactive activities designed to build confidence and teamwork, followed by the distribution of nutritious meals and specially prepared gift bags. The event reinforced the club’s ongoing advocacy to combat hunger while supporting the emotional and social well-being of vulnerable children.

Held at a key community hub in the Southville 3 relocation site, the program underscored the club's commitment to uplifting families in low-income communities and advancing a safer, more equitable world for women and girls. By maintaining a consistent presence in the area, the club strengthened public awareness of its broader mission in women’s empowerment, education and community welfare.

The program’s success was made possible through strong collaboration with parish partners, donors and volunteers who contributed food supplies, gifts and manpower. Organizers said the positive engagement between Zonta members and beneficiaries created a supportive and festive atmosphere.

Local families expressed gratitude for the initiative. “Masaya po ako kasi may mga nag-aalaga at nagmamalasakit sa aming mga bata,” said a 9-year-old participant. One mother shared, “Salamat sa Zonta. Hindi lang regalo ang dala ninyo—hope po ang dala ninyo sa mga anak namin.” President Nielsen added, “Seeing the children so happy reminds us why our mission matters. Every smile is a small victory.”