Zonta Club of Pampanga joins Mabalacat City Women’s Summit and GADwad Parangal 2026

The Zonta Club of Pampanga, Philippines, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Mabalacat City, joined the Women’s Summit of Mabalacat City: SOWA and GADwad Parangal 2026 held on 26 March, at the SMX Convention Center Clark. The club’s participation reflected its commitment to advancing women’s rights, gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Representing the club were Club President Gina Millan, Past Presidents Gilda Padua and Analiza Agbanglo and Vice President Leonor Bais. The delegates were formally acknowledged during the program by one of the event hosts, highlighting the valued presence and contribution of the club in promoting women centered initiatives within the community.

The Women’s Summit gathered various organizations and stakeholders in celebration of National Women’s Month and served as a platform to recognize exemplary efforts in institutionalizing Gender and Development (GAD) programs in Mabalacat City. The event also strengthened collaboration among civic organizations, government agencies and advocates working toward inclusive and sustainable empowerment for women.

The Zonta Club of Pampanga was officially invited and welcomed by Mr. Charlo G. Costales, City Population and Gender and Development Officer, Vice Chairperson of the Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS), who spearheaded the GADwad Parangal 2026 recognition program. The awards honored exemplary GFPS initiatives in institutionalizing and mainstreaming Gender and Development while advancing gender equality and women empowerment in Mabalacat City.

During the event, club representatives also had the opportunity to engage with the Mayor of Mabalacat City and other local government officials, further strengthening partnerships and shared commitments toward empowering women and building a more gender responsive community.