Attorney Mildred Tria, a noted book author and international speaker on violence against women and children and women’s rights, delivered an engaging and educational talk to 200 students of San Antonio National High School on 26 March.

Held at the school’s campus on Mayapis Street, the event gathered school principal Emelita Cajigal, head teachers, Area Director Rowena Plan, Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II, Philippines, President Shirley Licup and her club members. During the session, Mildred provided students with critical legal knowledge and practical guidance on preventing gender-based violence and teenage pregnancy.

An accomplished author of Archipelagic Baselines and the Philippine Territory and Empowered: Understanding Women’s Rights and the Laws, Mildred also writes the legal opinion column “The Legal Desk” in Buhay Marino. She recently served as a speaker at the Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific’s faculty development program in Bangkok, where she emphasized the role of women’s education as a catalyst for societal progress.

At the event, Mildred discussed several key topics, including Republic Act No. 10354, the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act of 2012; Republic Act No. 9262, the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004; and Republic Act No. 8353, addressing rape by sexual assault and carnal knowledge. She also provided relationship advice, insights on reproductive health and sexuality education, and legal perspectives on teenage pregnancy.

The session aimed to raise awareness of the prevalence and impact of gender-based violence and empower young individuals, particularly girls, to recognize warning signs and make informed choices. Throughout the discussion, students actively engaged with the speaker, gaining valuable insights into their rights and available protections under the law.

Club President Shirley Licup introduced Zonta International to the audience, sharing the organization’s mission, vision and advocacies with students who were previously unfamiliar with Zonta’s work. This effort not only expanded Zonta’s visibility but reinforced the club’s dedication to empowering women and youth in the local community.

Principal Emelita Cajigal expressed her gratitude, saying, “Thank you for organizing this talk. Our students learned a lot. Hoping for a stronger partnership with you.”