Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao’ 16 Days of Activism: Days 9-16 highlights

Day 9 — Medical and Law School Debate: United to End Digital Violence
As part of the 16 Days of Activism, the Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao, Philippines, hosted the 1st Medical & Law School Debate 2025 at Robinsons Mall Tuguegarao. With the theme “United to End Digital Violence Against Women,” the event brought together future legal and medical professionals in a public forum that emphasized gender equality, human rights and the urgent need to combat online violence targeting women and girls.

Day 10 — A Call to Action Against Human Trafficking and Digital Exploitation
On Day 10, the club urged members, government partners, civil society and the community to take bold, urgent action to address climate-related violence and digital exploitation. The club underscored that climate change is not gender-neutral and that environmental crises deepen risks for women and girls. The club reaffirmed its stance against human trafficking and the online sexual abuse or exploitation of children (OSAEC) and CSAEM, advocating for survivor-centered justice, stronger policies and community accountability. The message emphasized that every Filipino life—online or offline—has dignity beyond price.

Day 11 — Day of Solidarity With Survivors
The club devoted Day 11 to honoring survivors of violence against women, including those whose stories remain unspoken due to stigma or fear. The club emphasized that all experiences of violence deserve recognition and support, and highlighted available pathways for protection, intervention and justice. The club reaffirmed its message that violence in all forms is unacceptable and that collective action is essential. “Enough is enough,” the club declared.

Day 12 — Day of Student Engagement and Z Club Induction
In Peñablanca, Cagayan, the club gathered 100 students from Peñablanca East National High School for the Day of Student Engagement, which included the induction of new Z Club officers and an orientation on student leadership. Inspirational and educational sessions followed, including HIV awareness, mental health, and legal discussions on Anti-OSAE/CSAEM. A blessing and turnover ceremony also marked the renovation of the Zonta Dorm, upgraded with new furnishings and improved facilities to support young women from distant barangays.

Day 13 — Community Outreach for Vulnerable Families
On Day 13, the club conducted an outreach activity in Barangays Battung and Barancuag in Tuao, providing essential rice, beddings, household items and food supplies to 60 solo parents and senior citizens, as well as school supplies to 40 students. The activity was supported by club members, local government partners and donors. The Committee on Environment also conducted an ocular inspection of recent flooding in the area, underscoring the club’s commitment to climate justice and disaster preparedness. The outreach affirmed the club’s mission to support marginalized and disaster-affected communities, especially women and children.

Day 14 — Tree-Growing at Zonta Forest and Garden
The Zonta club, together with the Cagayan Valley Medical Center Finance Division and the Metropolitan Tuguegarao Water District, carried out a tree-growing activity at the Zonta Forest and Garden in Peñablanca as part of the Day of Community. Established in 2021 through a watershed partnership, the five-hectare area now holds more than 15,000 trees and serves as the club’s flagship climate justice initiative. The activity emphasized the interconnectedness of environmental protection and the fight against gender-based violence, as climate-related disasters disproportionately affect women and girls.

Day 15 — Livelihood Outreach for Women PDLs
On Day 15, the Zonta club, in partnership with the Golden Z Club of CSU Andrews Campus and the Finance Department of CVMC, conducted a livelihood outreach program for 25 female Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the BJMP Female Dormitory in Cataggamman Nuevo. The activity included the donation of used clothing for rug-making, hygiene kits from the Golden Z Club, and a gift exchange after a caroling tribute from the PDLs. Inspirational messages emphasized dignity, skill-building and service as tools for empowerment. The effort aligned with Zonta’s global call to support vulnerable women through meaningful community action.

Day 16 — Tropical Christmas Gathering and Day of Reflection
The Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao concluded the 16 Days campaign with its Tropical Christmas Gathering, which featured the Day of Reflection and the induction of new members. President Josefina T. Sedano led the program, encouraging sustained advocacy and unity in championing women’s rights. Twelve women professionals were inducted, strengthening the club’s capacity for future service and advocacy. Committees presented updates and outstanding members were recognized. Area Director Racquel C. Reyes-Aglaua delivered the Christmas Message, emphasizing collective leadership in eliminating gender-based violence. The evening ended with fellowship, games and celebration.

Representation at OFW Family Day and Marilag Awards and Recognition from the Philippine Red Cross
Vice President Atty. Maria Milagros N. Fernan-Cayosa represented the club at the 2025 OFW Family Day and served as a judge for the Regional Marilag Awards, which honor former OFWs who champion women’s welfare and community service. In her remarks, she highlighted the significance of 10 December as the culmination of the 16 Days campaign and reaffirmed Zonta’s advocacy for dignity and empowerment.

On the same day, the club received two major recognitions from the Philippine Red Cross Cagayan Chapter: a Certificate of Appreciation and a Diploma of Service for its continued support for the voluntary blood donation program and contribution to collecting over 200 units of blood in two years. The club’s blood program coordinators were also honored individually. The timing of these awards—on Human Rights Day and the final day of the 16 Days campaign—reinforced the club’s commitment to humanitarian service, community welfare and the protection of women and girls.

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