Zonta Club of Tuguegarao strengthens partnerships for women’s empowerment and community development

The Zonta Club of Tuguegarao, Philippines, reaffirmed its commitment to women’s empowerment and community development through key collaborations with the Commission on Population and Development-Region II (CPD RII) and Cagayan State University-Andrews Campus (CSU-Andrews) during recent planning meetings and National Women’s Month activities.

In a strategic planning meeting, Club Vice President Herita Macarubbo, a former CPD RII Regional Director, and Past President Dr. Evelyn Puzon-Guzman met with CPD RII Regional Director Theresa Soriano to outline collaborative activities for March, June, July, August and October. The discussion focused on women’s empowerment, reproductive health, responsible parenthood and family planning, reinforcing a long-standing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the club and CPD RII. With these strengthened ties, both organizations continue to advance initiatives that uplift women and address population and development concerns in the region.

Further demonstrating its advocacy, the club actively participated in the 2025 National Women’s Month Kick-Off Ceremony on 10 March at Claude Andrews Convention Center, CSU-Andrews. Led by CSU-Andrews CEO Attorney Carla Marie Sumigad, the event emphasized the importance of gender equality and empowerment. Club President Liza Mora-Arroyo and Immediate Past President Maria Olivia B. Pascual delivered an inspiring message, reaffirming the club's mission, while Past President Shelley Tungcul-Pascual provided the event rationale, highlighting the significance of National Women’s Month.

As part of the celebration, the club conducted a Women’s Day Derma Consultation and Treatment, offering free dermatological services to 50 students and faculty. The initiative, led by Dr. Evelyn Puzon-Guzman, was made possible through the generous support of Galderma Philippines and Beauchamps Pharmacy, with club members assisting in patient care.