As part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, the Zonta Club of Tuguegarao, Philippines, continued its powerful advocacy through a series of themed actions designed to educate, support, mobilize, and uplift the community. Days 7–15 highlighted key pillars of the movement, reminding the public that ending violence requires collective commitment.
Day 7: ALLYSHIP
Day 7 underscored the vital role of allyship in ending gender-based violence, emphasizing that men must stand as partners in advocacy. The club dedicated the day to promoting the HeForShe movement, calling on men to serve not merely as supporters but as active champions of women’s rights and safety.
Unlike earlier days with on-site activities, Day 7 unfolded through a digital wave of solidarity. Zonta Joes, husbands of club members, and male representatives from partner agencies submitted photos wearing orange, symbolizing unity and accountability. LGU Lal-lo’s PROJECT PEDAL cycling community also joined the call, demonstrating that advocacy thrives wherever people unite with purpose.
The messages shared captured the spirit of the initiative: “Ending violence against women is everyone’s responsibility,” wrote Arch. Michael Arroyo. Another participant added that being an ally requires speaking up and showing respect every day.
Day 8: GIVING
Day 8 showcased the power of giving through “Zisterly Support,” reminding the community that generosity can bring dignity, safety, and hope. The Zonta club extended relief to 273 families affected by Typhoon Uwan in Barangay Barancuag, Tuao.
The distribution included 273 foam mattresses, benefiting an estimated 819 individuals, along with clothing for women and girls and essential medicines for vulnerable residents. The initiative was made possible through donations from the club members, Farmacia M, and Batch ’89 Civil Engineering – USLT under the leadership of Club President Liza Mora-Arroyo.
Day 8 affirmed that advocacy is not only spoken or posted; it is also shared through meaningful acts of compassion.
Day 9: KNOWLEDGE
Day 9 highlighted Knowledge as a critical tool for empowerment. The Zonta Club of Tuguegarao, together with LGU Lal-lo and led by Vice Mayor Maria Olivia B. Pascual, organized an orientation-workshop on handling VAWC cases, anti-trafficking laws, and online sexual exploitation of children.
Zontians Atty. Rowena Donato and Atty. Desiree Garcia provided detailed guidance on legal frameworks and protection measures, helping participants understand how to act effectively in real situations. Vice Mayor Pascual shared the story of a courageous survivor to remind women of their strength and their right to seek help.
Certificates were awarded to Z Club members, barangay volunteers, and guidance counselors, recognizing their commitment to building a safer community.
Day 10: TRIBUTE
Day 10 honored the resilience of survivors through a tribute titled “Voices from the Valley: Tribute to Survivors of Gender-Based Violence.” The Z Club of Lal-lo NHS presented a moving performance of the song Rise, symbolizing strength, healing, and hope.
Supported by the club, LGU Lal-lo, and Z Club advisers, the performance highlighted the meaningful role of youth in advocacy and the power of art to amplify awareness. Day 10 underscored that honoring survivors is essential to fostering a culture of respect and empowerment.
Day 11: SERVICE
Day 11 emphasized Service as a tangible expression of advocacy. The Zonta club offered free dermatological consultations to 78 students and faculty at CSU Carig Campus.
Initiated by Dr. Trician T. Villarosa and supported by BCP Dermatological Corp., the activity was led by Dr. Evelyn Guzman and fellow Zontian doctors and health professionals. Participants received medical assessments, skincare guidance, and necessary medication.
The day demonstrated that promoting health and confidence, especially among women and girls, is a vital step toward empowerment and safety.
Day 12: DISCUSSION
Day 12 focused on Discussion as a means of strengthening awareness and community engagement. The club facilitated a dialogue on dermatological health, hygiene, and the connection to a violence-free community at CSU Carig Campus.
Led by Dr. Evelyn Guzman and Zontian health professionals, the session explored how self-care builds confidence, resilience, and self-respect—traits essential in preventing violence and fostering empowerment.
Day 12 revealed that meaningful dialogue is a cornerstone of effective advocacy.
Day 13: LISTENING
Day 13 highlighted the importance of listening as an act of support and dignity. The club officers and members visited the BJMP Female Dormitory in Tuguegarao City to hear the stories and needs of women deprived of liberty.
Zontians provided legal consultations through Atty. Venus Saquing and Atty. Mari-Ann Bayle and dermatological services through Dr. Evelyn Puzon-Guzman. The visit, led by Club President Liza Mora Arroyo, reaffirmed the club’s commitment to compassionate, meaningful service.
Day 13 reminded the community that every woman’s voice deserves recognition, respect, and understanding.
Day 14: OUTREACH — HUGZ OF HOPE
Day 14 featured Outreach through the “HugZ of Hope” project, conceptualized by Vice Mayor Olive Pascual. Held in partnership with the Tuguegarao City Government’s “MAI SPECIAL LOVE” program, the initiative brought joy to children with special needs and their families.
The club distributed toys and fruits while the city government provided free developmental pediatric consultations. Through LGU Lal-lo, the Z Club of Lal-lo NHS, and generous donors, the initiative also reached orphans and sick children across Cagayan.
Day 14 reminded participants that advocacy is expressed not only through education and policy but also through warmth, kindness, and presence.
Day 15: GLOBAL ISSUES
Day 15 explored the profound connection between global crises and violence against women and girls. Club member Dr. Trician T. Villarosa delivered an audio-visual lecture illustrating how climate change, conflict, economic hardship, and technological harm disproportionately affect women.
The presentation highlighted real stories: child marriage driven by climate-related poverty, trafficking fueled by instability, tech-facilitated stalking, threats to Indigenous advocates, and exploitation faced by refugees. These narratives demonstrated that violence is both a cause and a consequence of global disruption.
Day 15 underscored that solutions must be rooted in both local action and global understanding to create lasting change.
Join us in saying NO 