Biennium 2024 - 2026, PROJECTS

Women Empowerment Through Awareness: A Talk on Violence Against Women and Children and Teenage Pregnancy

26
Mar

Project Title:

Women Empowerment Through Awareness: A Talk on Violence Against Women and Children and Teenage Pregnancy

Date: March 26, 2025

Time: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Venue: San Antonio National High School, Mayapis, Makati City
Participants: 200 High School Students
Volunteers: 13 Zontians and Supporters

Project Description:

In line with Zonta International’s mission to eliminate violence against women and girls and promote gender equality through education, the club organized a legal and educational forum for high school students of San Antonio National High School.

Renowned women’s rights advocate and author Atty. Mildred Tria served as the resource speaker. She is the author of “Empowered: Understanding Women’s Rights and the Laws” and a distinguished speaker on women’s education at international forums, including the 3rd Faculty Development Program of the Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP) in Bangkok.

The talk, held from 1:00 to 4:00 PM, tackled critical issues affecting young women today, including:

  1. Republic Act 10354 – Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act of 2012

  2. Republic Act 9262 – Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004

  3. Republic Act 8353 – Expanded definition of Rape under the Anti-Rape Law

  4. Teenage Pregnancy and Legal Perspectives (G.R. No. 204819)

  5. Sexuality Education and Healthy Relationships

  6. Practical relationship advice aimed at self-awareness and protection

The activity aimed to raise awareness among youth about their rights, reproductive health, and the laws protecting them against abuse, while also promoting responsible decision-making and personal empowerment.

Also in attendance were the school’s head teachers:

  • Ms. Rowena Bunagan

  • Ms. Arlene Sarmiento

  • Ms. A. Gayanilo

  • Ms. Wilma Paz

From Zonta, Area Director Rowena Plan joined the program to represent the club’s leadership and ongoing advocacy work.

Zonta International Goals Addressed:

  • Goal 1: Ending violence against women and girls – The talk directly addressed VAWC laws and protective measures.

  • Goal 2: Empowering youth through education and awareness – Equipping students with legal knowledge fosters safer, more informed communities.

  • Goal 3: Advocating for gender equality and reproductive rights – By discussing reproductive health laws and responsible parenthood, the activity empowered youth to make informed life choices.