Monthly Archives: October 2024

October 18, 2025 | Public Forum of Child Marriage  

Members of Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II were proud to attend the 55th Stop and Salute Flag Raising Ceremony at Luneta Park, joining public servants, private sector leaders, and fellow patriots to honor the Philippine flag. This special event highlighted the inspiring story of Ms. Carol dela Cruz, the 55th honoree of the Salute to a Clean Flag Movement. Her dedication to patriotism is unwavering, as she regularly climbs the flagpole at a Savidug Elementary School in Sabtang, Batanes to ensure the flag-raising ceremony can proceed—an act that went viral for its humility and strong commitment to our nation. As a club dedicated to empowering women and promoting education, Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II stands with women like Ms. dela Cruz, who demonstrate leadership and inspire the next generation. Our presence here is part of our ongoing mission to ensure NO ONE IS LEFT BEHIND.

October 11, 2025 | Zonta Club of Greater Rizal’s International Day of the Girl Child: Addressing the Challenges Facing Girls in the Philippines   The International Day of the Girl Child, observed every year on October 11, is a reminder to reflect on the unique challenges that girls face globally. In the Philippines, these challenges are exacerbated by issues such as child exploitation, underage pregnancies, and access to education, all of which disproportionately affect young girls. By raising awareness and taking action, we can ensure that every girl is given the opportunity to thrive. Child Exploitation and Online Sexual Abuse The Philippines has unfortunately become a global hotspot for online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC). Studies show that 80% of Filipino children are vulnerable to online sexual abuse or bullying, with many cases involving the exploitation of minors for live-streamed sexual content. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly worsened this issue, as economic hardships led some families to participate in online trafficking to survive. Underage Pregnancies and Sexual Violence The teenage pregnancy rate in the Philippines remains high, with a 35% increase in live births among girls aged 15 and below from 2021 to 2022. Girls under 18 face significant barriers to accessing sexual health services due to legal restrictions, further complicating their ability to protect themselves from unintended pregnancies. These pregnancies not only put girls at greater risk of health complications but also limit their future educational and economic opportunities. Educational Disparities Despite strides in education, economic pressures often force young girls to drop out of school to help support their families. The COVID-19 pandemic further disrupted education for girls, with many lacking the resources to participate in remote learning. This gap in education has long-term consequences for their future potential, making it difficult for them to break the cycle of poverty and inequality. Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II: Ensuring No Girl Is Left Behind At Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II, we are committed to rewriting the narrative for girls in the Philippines. We believe that women’s rights are human rights, and we are dedicated to empowering young girls through advocacy, education, and support programs. Our work aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 5 to achieve gender equality and ensure that no woman or girl is left behind. We promise to continue raising our voices and taking action to nurture the dreams and potential of girls across the country, so they can realize a sustainable, equitable future for generations to come. ADDITIONAL READING: [1] https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/896654/cpd-under-15-pregnancies-surged-in-2022/story/ [2] https://www.worldvision.org.ph/end-child-marriage-2020/ [3] https://www.savethechildren.net/news/jump-35-teen-pregnancies-philippines-prompts-calls-increase-sex-education-and-health-services [4] https://www.pids.gov.ph/details/news/in-the-news/philippines-improves-in-2023-world-gender-equality-ranking [5] https://pcw.gov.ph/education/ [6] https://www.pnri.dost.gov.ph/images/GADCorner/Fact-Sheet-on-Filipino-Women-and-Men-2023.pdf [7] https://reproductiverights.org/philippines-decriminalizes-adolescent-sexual-activity/ [8] https://philippines.unfpa.org/en/news/maguindanao-youth-spearhead-campaign-against-child-marriage [9] https://psa.gov.ph/content/teenage-pregnancy-declined-86-percent-2017-54-percent-2022 [10] https://psa.gov.ph/content/education-women-and-men [11] https://reproductiverights.org/philippines-criminalizes-child-marriage/ [12] https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/03/22/2253599/us-report-philippines-still-struggling-protect-children-sexual-abuse [13] https://psa.gov.ph/content/literacy-rate-and-educational-attainment-among-persons-five-years-old-and-over-philippines

Project Title: “WIPE EVERY TEAR” Acquaintance and Art Therapy Session Date: October 8, 2024 Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PMVenue: Wipe Every Tear Headquarters, Fairview, Quezon CityParticipants: 15 Beneficiaries (Single Ladies and Mothers)Volunteers: 14 Zontians and Supporters Project Description: In line with Zonta International’s mission to empower women and girls and its commitment to combat gender-based violence and support survivors, this outreach activity was organized in partnership with Wipe Every Tear (WET), a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating women exploited in the Philippine sex trade. The activity served as a meaningful afternoon of connection and healing. Zonta members spent time engaging with WET’s beneficiaries—survivors of exploitation who are now on a journey of restoration through access to safe housing, education, and livelihood support. The highlight of the day was an art therapy session through painting. This expressive activity was designed to help participants process emotions, reduce stress, and reclaim their voices through creative freedom. It also promoted mental wellness and self-confidence among the women, many of whom are rebuilding their lives after trauma. The event also included a simple yet joyful program with interactive games, snacks, and giveaways, fostering a sense of community and belonging for the participants. Zonta International Goals Addressed: Goal 1: Preventing violence against women and girls – By partnering with WET, the club supported survivors and advocated for the end of exploitation. Goal 2: Promoting mental health and empowerment – The art therapy enabled participants to heal emotionally and gain confidence in a safe space. Goal 3: Supporting vulnerable groups through service – The club directly engaged with women who are often marginalized and helped amplify their journey toward empowerment.