Author Archives: Anthony Cama Jr.

July 21, 2025 | Malacañang Compound, Manila — The Zonta Club of Greater Rizal 2, led by Club President Shirley Licup, proudly joined the observance of National Disability Rights Week at the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Main Building within the Malacañang Compound. The multi-sectoral event, anchored on the theme of human rights, sustainable development, and cultural empowerment, demonstrated a united commitment to inclusivity and the empowerment of persons with disabilities (PWDs). Honoring Proclamation No. 597 The celebration was held in line with Presidential Proclamation No. 597, which designates the third week of July each year as a time to raise awareness and strengthen rights-based support for PWDs and other vulnerable groups. The gathering was organized by the DBM in collaboration with the United Nations Association of the Philippines-Global (UNAP-Global), the Earthsavers DREAMS Ensemble Artists for Peace, and several government, civic, and media partners. A Blend of Patriotism and Advocacy The morning program began with the Flag Ceremony, enriched by cultural and artistic performances from the Earthsavers DREAMS Ensemble, which blended heritage and advocacy. Recitations of the Panatang Makabayan, excerpts from Jose Rizal’s Mi Último Adios, and Apolinario Mabini’s Decalogue moved participants with messages of patriotism, resilience, and justice. Performances by differently abled artists, out-of-school youth, and Indigenous groups—including a Tinikling dance by blind performers—showcased the central message of the program: that disability is not inability, but an opportunity for empowerment through empathy, art, and inclusion. Government Commitment The event also recognized the leadership of DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman, who received a Certificate of Recognition for promoting budgetary inclusivity, as well as the contributions of Undersecretaries Margaux Salcedo, Janet Abuel, Rolando Toledo, and Wilford Will Wong. Usec. Salcedo, in particular, was commended for mobilizing partnerships that amplify the voices of PWDs. Zonta’s Role in Advocacy The participation of the Zonta Club of Greater Rizal 2 highlights the organization’s continuing commitment to inclusive development and gender equality, especially in advocating for marginalized communities such as PWDs. By joining this national observance, Zonta underscored its mission to work hand in hand with government, civil society, and the arts sector in building a society that leaves no one behind. A Call to Unity As Chair Tony Cama of the Philippine Eagles Media Bureau aptly shared during the event: “True nation-building begins when no one is left behind—not the poor, the disabled, the young, or the elderly. This celebration is more than a flag-raising ceremony. It’s a raised banner of justice, dignity, and hope for all sectors.” The event was a resounding reminder that inclusion is not just a principle—it is an active movement towards a more compassionate and empowered Philippines.

A Collaboration Between Zonta Club of Greater Rizal 2 and the Health Ministry of Sta. Maria Della Strada Parish The Zonta Club of Greater Rizal 2, in partnership with the Health Ministry of Sta. Maria Della Strada Parish, successfully held a Cancer Clearance Test for Women along with a Women’s Health Talk—an initiative dedicated to empowering women through preventive care, awareness, and education. Promoting Preventive Health Care The activity highlighted the importance of regular medical check-ups and early detection. The Cancer Clearance Test provided participating women with access to essential screenings aimed at detecting early warning signs of cancer and other health conditions. For many, this was not just a medical test, but a step toward peace of mind, prevention, and timely intervention. A Shared Mission of Service This collaboration between Zonta Club of Greater Rizal 2 and the Health Ministry of Sta. Maria Della Strada Parish exemplifies how organizations can work hand in hand to create meaningful impact. Zonta’s mission to uplift women, combined with the parish’s dedication to holistic health, brought a program that addressed not just the physical, but also the emotional and educational needs of women in the community. Looking Ahead The event served as a reminder that early detection saves lives, and that women must be empowered with the knowledge and resources to safeguard their health. Zonta Club of Greater Rizal 2 remains committed to championing initiatives that promote women’s health, dignity, and empowerment.

The Zonta Club of Greater Rizal 2, in partnership with the Health Ministry of Sta. Maria Della Strada Parish, successfully held a a Women’s Health Talk—an initiative dedicated to empowering women through preventive care, awareness, and education. Women’s Health at the Forefront Alongside the medical screenings, a Women’s Health Talk was conducted to educate participants about critical topics such as: Early detection and prevention of cervical, breast, and reproductive cancers The importance of lifestyle choices for long-term wellness Accessing local health services and support systems Empowering women to prioritize their health despite daily responsibilities Speakers emphasized that health is a woman’s greatest asset, and caring for oneself is also a way of caring for one’s family and community. A Shared Mission of Service This collaboration between Zonta Club of Greater Rizal 2 and the Health Ministry of Sta. Maria Della Strada Parish exemplifies how organizations can work hand in hand to create meaningful impact. Zonta’s mission to uplift women, combined with the parish’s dedication to holistic health, brought a program that addressed not just the physical, but also the emotional and educational needs of women in the community. Looking Ahead The event served as a reminder that early detection saves lives, and that women must be empowered with the knowledge and resources to safeguard their health. Zonta Club of Greater Rizal 2 remains committed to championing initiatives that promote women’s health, dignity, and empowerment.