Zonta Club of Makati and Environs launch into new biennium with service and leadership development

The Zonta Club of Makati and Environs, Philippines, began the 2026–2028 biennium with a series of activities highlighting service, leadership development and organizational excellence.

Brigada Ezkuwela supports 300 students in Manila

On 5 June, the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs Foundation Inc. launched the new biennium through Brigada Ezkuwela 2026, its fifth annual school supplies distribution project, held in Barangay 111, Tondo, Manila.

Through contributions from members, donors, volunteers and partners, the project provided school bags and educational supplies to 300 students from Barangays 31, 111, 119, 120 and 123. The initiative was designed to help children begin the school year equipped with essential learning materials.

The project was led by Club President Marcy Kochect-Chua, President-Elect Stella Cabalatungan, Treasurer and Project Head Ma. Teresa Tan, Immediate Past President Joanne Andrada and Golden Z Club Chair Jocel Labrador.

They were joined by student volunteers Sabine Liu-Lee and Daniel, as well as club staff led by Executive Director Jay Joaquino.

Club leaders expressed gratitude to the many members and supporters whose donations and volunteer efforts made the project possible, emphasizing the club's continued commitment to expanding educational opportunities for young people in the community.

Golden Z Club Officers participate in strategic planning session

From 8–9 June, the Golden Z Club of the University of Makati conducted a two-day strategic planning session at the ZCME Empowerment Center under the theme “Strengthening Leadership Through Action Beyond Service and Advocacy.”

The activity brought together club officers to reflect on organizational goals, strengthen leadership skills and prepare plans for the upcoming academic year.

The first day focused on personal leadership development through the theme “Within Before We Lead: Building Self, Building Purpose.” Sessions facilitated by Golden Z Club President Shawn Michael V. Caliboso encouraged participants to explore their strengths, values and leadership styles through reflection and interactive activities.

Officers also reviewed the organization's structure within the broader Zonta network, discussed membership recruitment strategies and explored the formation of subcommittees to strengthen club operations and member engagement. Additional discussions centered on event planning, implementation and evaluation.

The second day focused on organizational planning and future initiatives. Officers reviewed past projects, assessed their impact and identified opportunities for improvement while developing a calendar of activities for the upcoming academic year.

The session concluded with mentorship and guidance from Jocel Labrador, co-chairperson of the Z/Golden Z Club Committee, who provided recommendations to help ensure the club's programs remain aligned with Zonta's mission and values.

Organizers said the strategic planning session strengthened teamwork, leadership and organizational commitment while establishing a clear direction for the year ahead.

Celebrating excellence, leadership and service

The Zonta Club of Makati and Environs and several of its members were honored during the Area 5 Turnover and Awards Ceremony.

The club received both the Community Bridge-Builder Award and the MAGIS+ Excellence Award in recognition of its commitment to collaboration, advocacy, community engagement and service.

Joanne Z. Andrada was recognized with the Dazzling Diamond Award and Trailblazer Award for her leadership, philanthropy and contributions to the organization.

Past Zonta International President Olivia A. Ferry received a Plaque of Appreciation for her role as an advisor and mentor, recognizing her continued guidance and support of Zontians.

Former Area Director Armita Rufino also received a Plaque of Appreciation for her mentorship and dedication to leadership development within the organization.

Club leaders congratulated all award recipients, noting that their achievements and service continue to inspire efforts to build a better world for women and girls through leadership, advocacy and community action.