Category Archives: PROJECTS
Biennium 2024 - 2026, PROJECTS
Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II Leads Maning-Mani Training: President Shirley Licup Empowers Marikina’s Communities with Skills, Hope, and Sustainable Income
Apr
MARIKINA CITY – The Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II proudly champions the success of the Maning-Mani Livelihood Training Program, a transformative initiative that turned simple peanut preparation into a powerful vehicle for women’s empowerment, family resilience, and community-based enterprise. Spearheaded by Zonta Club President Shirley Licup and her 20 dedicated members, the training was held on November 13, 2025, at 1:00 PM on the 4th floor of the Marikina City Legislative Building. President Licup invited Julie Apali to serve as the program’s trainer and inspiration—a living testament to the very empowerment Zonta seeks to spread. Julie Apali is a symbol of women empowerment and resilience. She single-handedly raised seven children and put them all through school. Today, all seven have graduated and are gainfully employed. One of the key tools behind her success? Her peanut business. Through the Maning-Mani training, she shared not only her technical skills in peanut preparation, cooking, and packaging but also her personal story of perseverance, proving that small livelihoods can lead to life-changing outcomes. The 34 carefully selected indigent participants—representing all 16 barangays of Marikina City—learned directly from Julie’s hands-on instruction, gaining both practical know-how and the courage to begin their own journeys toward financial independence. “Zonta has always stood for uplifting women and creating sustainable change,” said President Shirley Licup. “This program is not just about peanuts—it’s about planting seeds of dignity, capability, and financial independence. And having Julie Apali with us shows our participants that success is possible, no matter how hard the starting point.” The Club’s collaboration with Hon. Carl Africa, Marikina City Councilor, further strengthened the program’s reach and impact. However, it was President Licup’s vision and the unwavering commitment of Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II members that turned the workshop into a full-cycle livelihood solution. At the close of the session, each of the 34 trainees received a complete start-up kit—including raw materials, packaging, and small capital—enabling them to launch their peanut-selling ventures in local communities and public markets immediately. This hands-on support reflects the Club’s core mission: empowering women and families not through temporary aid, but through sustainable, income-generating opportunities. For the Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II, the Maning-Mani project is more than a training—it is a testament to what women-led community action can accomplish. Under President Shirley Licup’s guidance, the Club continues to turn small beginnings into lasting change, one empowered household at a time.
Biennium 2024 - 2026, MEETINGS, PROJECTS
Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II Celebrates the Success of “A Better World with Zonta – The Concert” During 13th General Membership Meeting
Mar
The 13th General Membership Meeting (GMM) of the Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II became a celebration of gratitude, friendship, and shared accomplishment as Club President Shirley Licup hosted a special fellowship dinner with the talented performers who helped make “A Better World with Zonta – The Concert” a resounding success. The gathering recognized the invaluable contributions of the artists whose performances not only entertained the audience but also supported Zonta’s mission of empowering women and girls through service and advocacy. During the dinner, President Shirley Licup expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the performers for their trust, generosity, and unwavering support of the club’s fundraising concert. She acknowledged that their remarkable talent, dedication, and commitment were instrumental in the event’s success and in advancing the club’s humanitarian and community programs. President Licup also emphasized that the concert reflected the power of collaboration, demonstrating how the arts and volunteerism can come together to inspire hope and create meaningful change. The evening also provided an opportunity to look ahead as President Licup discussed the group’s upcoming trip to Xiamen, China, where they hope to strengthen friendships, foster cultural exchange, and explore future opportunities for collaboration. Filled with gratitude and optimism, the celebration concluded with a renewed commitment to continue working together in promoting Zonta’s vision of building a better world for women and girls through service, partnership, and goodwill.
Biennium 2024 - 2026, PROJECTS
Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II Presents “Concert for a Cause: A Night of Harmony and Hope for Two Noble Institutions
Mar
Proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships to benefit Mary Johnston Hospital and Wipe Every Tears Foundation RIZAL, PHILIPPINES – The Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II , under the dynamic leadership of President Shirley Licup , is set to stage a heartfelt “Concert for a Cause” — an evening of music, dance, and solidarity aimed at raising funds for two deserving institutions: Mary Johnston Hospital and the Wipe Every Tears Foundation. The concert brings together club members, partners, and supporters in a celebration of service, showcasing the club’s unwavering commitment to empowering women, improving community health, and uplifting the most vulnerable members of society. A Night of Entertainment with Purpose Serving as the evening’s host is the talented Eva Marie Poon , whose warmth and energy will guide the audience through a program filled with inspiring performances and meaningful moments. The event will open with an invocation led by Melanie Mae Torres , setting a solemn and grateful tone for the evening. This will be followed by the singing of the Zonta Hymn , beautifully rendered by Divina Lupe Lazaro , reaffirming the organization’s global mission of advancing the status of women through service and advocacy. President Shirley Licup will then deliver her President’s Welcome Speech , extending gratitude to attendees, sponsors, and volunteers, and sharing the vision behind this fundraising initiative. Special Performances to Delight the Audience The concert promises a rich variety of performances, including: Past Presidents’ Number – Dance A nostalgic and graceful performance by former club presidents, celebrating the legacy of leadership and service that continues to inspire the Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II. ABBA Number – Dance A lively and energetic tribute to the iconic Swedish pop group, guaranteed to have the audience clapping and singing along to timeless hits. President Shirley & Granddaughter Charlotte Nicolette C. Licup A touching intergenerational performance featuring President Shirley alongside her beloved granddaughter, symbolizing the passing of compassion and community spirit from one generation to the next. Bituin Escalante – Special Musical Number The acclaimed singer and performer will grace the stage with a soulful musical offering, adding star power and artistic depth to the evening. Group Dance Number A spirited ensemble performance featuring club members and supporters, showcasing the unity and camaraderie that define the Zonta spirit. Beneficiaries: Two Pillars of Compassion All proceeds from concert ticket sales and sponsorships will be directed to two exceptional institutions: 1. WIPE EVERY TEAR Foundation Represented by its Executive Director, Jorelli Griffin Torres, Wipe Every Tears is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, restoring, and reintegrating women and girls who have been victims of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation, helping them rebuild their lives with hope and freedom. 2. Mary Johnston Hospital Represented by its CEO and Executive Director, Dr. Glenn Roy Paraso , Mary Johnston Hospital is a trusted healthcare institution serving communities in and around Tondo, Manila. Known for its compassionate and high-quality medical services, the hospital has long been a beacon of healing for the underserved. “This concert is our way of turning music into medicine and dance into dignity. Every ticket sold, every peso donated, brings us closer to a world where no one is left in tears and no patient is denied care.” — President Shirley Licup , Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II Event Summary Detail Information Event Concert for a Cause Presented by Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II President Shirley Licup Host Eva Marie Poon Invocation Melanie Mae Torres Zonta Hymn Divina Lupe Lazaro Beneficiary #1 Wipe Every Tears Foundation (Exec. Director Jorelli Griffin Torres) Beneficiary #2 Mary Johnston Hospital (CEO/Exec. Director Dr. Glenn Roy Paraso) Special Performers Past Presidents (Dance), ABBA Number (Dance), President Shirley & Granddaughter Charlotte Nicolette C. Licup, Bituin Escalante, Group Dance Number About Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II is part of Zonta International, a global organization of executives and professionals working together to advance the status of women through service and advocacy. The club implements projects that promote health, education, and economic empowerment for women and girls in the Rizal community and beyond.
Mar
March 7, 2026 On March 7, 2026, the Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II, under the leadership of Club President Shirley Licup, celebrated Rose Day 2026 with the inspiring theme “Give to Gain.” The meaningful gathering highlighted the power of generosity, friendship, and service, bringing members together to honor the Zonta spirit of giving and reaffirm their commitment to improving the lives of women and girls through compassionate action. In her message, President Shirley Licup reminded members that the rose symbolizes hope, courage, respect, and compassion—values that define every Zontian’s commitment to service. She encouraged everyone to embrace the theme “Give to Gain,” emphasizing that by giving their time, talents, and resources to uplift others, they gain stronger friendships, meaningful experiences, and the fulfillment of making a lasting impact. She also expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the unwavering dedication and volunteer spirit of the club members, whose collective efforts continue to advance Zonta’s mission. The Rose Day 2026 celebration strengthened the bonds of fellowship among members while reaffirming the club’s commitment to empowering women and girls through advocacy, education, and community service. Inspired by the message of “Give to Gain,” the Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II looks forward to another year of transforming compassion into action, proving that the greatest rewards come from selfless service and a shared commitment to building a better world for women and girls.