Zonta Club of Isabela celebrates landmark projects honoring women's empowerment and resilience
The Zonta Club of Isabela, Philippines, marked two significant milestones in May 2026, highlighting its commitment to empowering women and girls through both community legacy-building and educational support initiatives.
Club breaks ground for permanent marker in Reina Mercedes
On 29 May, the club held a groundbreaking ceremony and time capsule laying for the future Zonta Club of Isabela Marker in Reina Mercedes, Philippines.
The marker will serve as a permanent symbol of the club's mission to advance the status of women and girls and commemorate its contributions to the local community. Club leaders described the project as a crowning achievement of the 2024-2026 biennium and a reflection of the leadership of Club President Jennifer Loveria.
During the ceremony, members placed a time capsule containing memories, accomplishments and aspirations for future generations. The project aims to preserve the club's legacy while reinforcing its ongoing commitment to advocacy, service and empowerment.
The club expressed gratitude to Zontian Mayor Malou Respicio-Saguban and the Local Government Unit of Reina Mercedes for their support of the initiative. Special recognition was also given to Zontian Ann Bernice Dy for designing the marker.
Club members noted that the monument represents more than a physical structure. It stands as a promise that the Zonta Club of Isabela will continue serving as a beacon of hope, advocacy and empowerment for women and girls for years to come.
Five young women receive Inspiring Women Awards
Earlier in the month, on 15 May, the club announced the recipients of its 2026 Inspiring Women Awards after reviewing dozens of submissions for its "Stories of Strength" initiative.
According to the club, selecting only five awardees proved challenging because each submission demonstrated resilience, determination and the strength of the Isabelina and Filipina spirit. The selected recipients were recognized for overcoming adversity and articulating how access to technology would support their educational and personal goals.
The 2026 award recipients are:
- Ashley Kate A. Esteban, San Lorenzo, City of Ilagan
- Princess Mikhaela D. Labiano, District III, Gamu
- Daniella A. Damagan, Villa Concepcion, City of Cauayan
- Nurina Malapitan-Valdesancho, Minante, City of Cauayan
- Jhonna Cel S. Ramos, Naggasican, City of Santiago
Each recipient received a laptop intended to support her education, professional development and future aspirations.
In announcing the awardees, the club encouraged the young women to view the laptops as tools for excellence and opportunities to expand their horizons. The club also recognized all applicants who shared their personal stories, noting that each demonstrated courage and resilience through their experiences.
The Zonta Club of Isabela expressed appreciation to Globe Telecom and Attorney Clarisa Agnes for their support of the award program.
Through both the Marker Project and the Inspiring Women Awards, the club continues to invest in initiatives that honor the achievements of women while creating opportunities for future generations to thrive.