On 9 August, the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs, Philippines, conducted a meeting with a like-minded organization in Makati, the Makati Social Welfare Development (MSWD). The two organizations discussed the Memorandum of Understanding and planned collaborations for celebrating the 16 Days of Activism, Women’s Month and other advocacy projects that will benefit marginalized women and children in Makati.  The main goals of this collaboration are:  

1. To help resolve the issue of violence against women and children in the marginalized sectors of society, specifically in Makati. 

 2. To create programs and activities that raise awareness about violence against women and children.  

3. To improve the legal, political, economic, educational, health and professional status of women in Makati through service and advocacy. 

4. To advance understanding, goodwill and peace through significant activities and programs that promote justice and universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.  

5. To unite in fostering high ethical standards, implementing service and advocacy programs and providing mutual support to communities.  

Present at this meeting were club president Joanne Z. Andrada, accompanied by club service committee chairs Vikki Yu and Armita Rufino and club executive director Jay Joaquino. Also in attendance were MSWD department head Ms. Loida Pangilinan, Ms. Dulce Manansala, RSW and two other staff members from MSWD.  The city of Makati, MSWD and the Zonta Club of Makati & Environs Foundation, Inc. are partners in promoting programs to combat violence against women and children.