Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao

29/08/2026

BRINGING ZONTA INTO THE CONVERSATION: ATTY. MILA LAUIGAN CHAMPIONS GENDER EQUALITY AND INCLUSION IN ASEAN FORUM

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan – The work of advancing gender equality does not end when a Zonta meeting or activity concludes. It continues wherever Zontians bring their voices, expertise and commitment.

Atty. Mila Catabay-Lauigan, District 17 Secretary of Zonta International and a member of the Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao (ZCCT), brought that commitment into a wider regional conversation as a resource speaker during ASEAN Brunch & Conversations: Dialogues on Climate Action, Inclusive Communities, and Regional Cooperation at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU), held virtually on August 28, 2026.

In her presentation, “Inclusive ASEAN: Gender Equality, Diversity, and Leaving No One Behind,” Atty. Lauigan urged participants to look beyond labels and categories and consider the barriers that prevent people from participating fully in their communities.

On gender equality, her message was direct: “Equality expands opportunity. It does not create a contest.” Challenging the notion that opportunities gained by women must come at the expense of men, she emphasized the importance of moving beyond traditional expectations of what women and men can do.

She carried the same principle into her discussion of ASEAN’s diversity. Different languages, cultures, religions, traditions, histories and economies can strengthen the regional community, but diversity must be valued and accompanied by genuine access and representation. Leaving no one behind requires more than opening the door; people must be able to enter, participate and belong.

Her challenge to participants was equally practical: listen, question and act.

Understand experiences different from one’s own, challenge assumptions and open doors for others.

The discussion closely reflected Zonta International’s commitment to gender equality and the human rights of women and girls. For Atty. Lauigan, that commitment also forms part of her work as Chair of ZCCT’s Committee for Membership and Club Sponsoring, Organizing and Mentoring, helping strengthen membership and extend the reach of Zonta’s mission.

Her presentation closed on a fitting reminder that inclusion is not zero-sum. Widening the circle creates more room for ideas, contribution and belonging. Every voice matters. Every person has dignity. Every contribution can strengthen ASEAN.

For ZCCT, Atty. Lauigan’s participation demonstrates how Zonta’s mission can travel beyond formal club activities and into the professional, academic and regional spaces where its members serve, lead and speak.

17/08/2026

✨A NEW CHAPTER, A SHARED COMMITMENT: ZONTA CLUB OF CENTRAL TUGUEGARAO WELCOMES A NEW BIENNIUM✨

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan – Leadership in Zonta is never simply passed from one set of hands to another. It is a commitment renewed, a responsibility shared, and a promise carried forward in service of women and girls.

This spirit marked the 20th Turnover, Installation and Induction Ceremonies of the Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao (ZCCT) on August 16, 2026, at the NGN Gran Hotel in Peñablanca, Cagayan, as the Club honored the leadership of Biennium 2024–2026, welcomed its officers for 2026–2028, and embraced new members who will help carry its mission forward.

Under the theme “Filipiniana Elegance,” the gathering brought together generations of Zontians whose years of service form part of the Club's continuing story.

The first part of the program looked back with gratitude.

Outgoing President Josefina T. Sedano delivered her valedictory address as the Club recognized exemplary contributions and loyalty during Biennium 2024–2026.
She was later presented with a certificate and token of appreciation for her leadership and service to the Club.

Reflecting on her two years at the helm, President Sedano spoke not only of the work accomplished, but of the people, friendships and communities that shaped her own journey in service.

“As I end my term, I realize that being President was never about the title; it was about the people I met. The friendship I gained; the lessons I learned; the communities we served; and the lives we touched. I came into this presidency thinking that perhaps I would make a difference in the lives of others; but the truth is Zonta changed me too. It taught me that service does not require perfection. It requires a willing heart.”

Her words captured the meaning of the afternoon’s first transition from a presidency coming to its close, not simply with the relinquishing of a title, but with gratitude for the people and experiences that gave the title meaning.

The occasion also welcomed new ZCCT members into the Zonta family. Their induction was followed by the Members’ Pledge of Commitment, led by Past Area Director and current District 17 Secretary Mila Perpetua C. Lauigan, affirming that membership in Zonta carries with it a commitment to service, advocacy and the advancement of women and girls.

Committee chairpersons and vice chairpersons for the new biennium were likewise introduced, bringing together the teams that will translate the Club's goals into programs and action in the areas of service, advocacy, membership, environment, public relations and communications and other areas of Zonta work.

The second part of the ceremonies turned toward the future.

In one of the afternoon's most symbolic moments, the gavel, charter documents and Club President pin were passed on, representing not merely a change in administration but the continuity of an organization whose work transcends individual terms of office.

Past Area Director Racquel C. Reyes-Aglaua introduced the Installing Officer, Area 4 Director Pua Phee, who formally installed the Board of Directors and officers of ZCCT for Biennium 2026–2028.
At the helm of the new administration is Maria Milagros “Mitoy” N. Fernan-Cayosa, who assumed office as Club President together with Vice President Cecilia G. Melad-Lazaro, Secretary Maria Liza A. Guzman, Assistant Secretary Ma. Segundina B. Bote, Treasurer Janet C. Bunagan, Assistant Treasurer Jesusa Jayme-Quiroga, and Auditor Mary Ann Sugar T. Macarilay.

The new Board of Directors is composed of Joyce Z. Calimag, Past Area Director Susan A. Carag, Past Area Director Mila Perpetua Catabay-Lauigan, Theresa B. Dimalanta, Rebecca R. Garcia, Past President Darie Grace A. Mamuric, Past President Marietta G. Reyes, Past Area Director Racquel C. Reyes-Aglaua, and Immediate Past President Josefina T. Sedano.

President Fernan-Cayosa delivered her acceptance speech following her installation, formally taking on the responsibility of leading ZCCT through another two years of service and advocacy. Looking ahead to the new biennium, she pledged a leadership grounded in both advocacy and service.

“As your President, I cannot promise that we will solve every problem. But I can promise this: We will not be silent. When there is injustice against women, we will speak. When there is violence against them, we will stand against it.”

She reaffirmed the Club’s commitment to women and girls whose education, safety and voices are at risk, emphasizing that “gender equality is not a favor, it is a right” and that women and girls deserve “not merely protection, but power, opportunity, dignity, and choice.” She concluded that Zonta’s service, when combined with advocacy, can change lives.

Adding significance to the gathering was Guest of Honor Atty. Domingo “Egon” Q. Cayosa, former National President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, who delivered the inspirational message.

In his message, Atty. Egon Cayosa offered a fitting perspective on how such change is sustained: “Sustainable change comes in gentle, continuing ripples, not crashing waves. Keep on doing it better, one at a time, and eventually you reach a critical mass, and momentum is gained as all your beneficiaries pay your kindness forward.”
He also reflected on the spirit behind Zonta service: “Your giving is exceptional because you expect no return. It is not an obligation but simply an option, yet you are richly rewarded with the sheer joy of doing good and by the resulting joy among the souls that you uplift.”

Past presidents of ZCCT took part in a congratulatory toast led by Past Area Director Susan Alivia-Carag, bringing together women who had each, in their own time, carried the responsibility now entrusted to the incoming leadership.
It was this gathering of past, present and future that gave deeper meaning to the afternoon.

A turnover acknowledges that leadership is entrusted only for a time. An installation accepts the responsibility to lead. An induction opens the door for new members to become part of something larger than themselves.

Together, the three ceremonies reflected the continuity at the heart of Zonta: honoring those who served, supporting those who now lead, and welcoming those who will carry the work forward.

As Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao begins Biennium 2026–2028, the names and faces of its leadership may change, but the purpose remains constant. ZCCT holds women working together, across generations of service, to build a better world for women and girls.

06/08/2026

✨Congratulations to our Past Area 4 Director, Judge Racquel C. Reyes-Aglaua, on the launch of her book, Legal Ethics: Integrity in Practice. 📖⚖️

As Zontians, we believe that building a better world for women and girls begins with principled leadership, integrity, and the courage to uphold justice. Through this remarkable work, Judge Racquel shares knowledge that strengthens the legal profession and inspires future generations to lead with competence, accountability, and compassion.

Your dedication to the law, to service, and to empowering others reflects the very spirit of Zonta’s mission to build a better world for women and girls.

Congratulations on this wonderful milestone! Wishing you a successful book launch and many lives touched through your work. 💛📚

25/07/2026

A better world for women and girls begins with safety, dignity, and accountability. We stand against all forms of gender-based violence and every attempt to excuse, normalize, or silence the truth.

The Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao is here to help. If you or someone you know needs support, you may reach us through our official social media page.

Together, we continue to build a better world for women and girls.

15/07/2026

ZONTA CLUB OF CENTRAL TUGUEGARAO RECEIVES DISTRICT 17 SILVER AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE PROJECT

The Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao (ZCCT) received the Silver Award for Outstanding Service Projectduring the Zonta International Convention, held in Vancouver, Canada, from July 11 to 14, 2026. The award formed part of the Zonta International District 17 District Governor's Second Year Awards for the 2024-2026 Biennium.

The recognition was conferred for "Restoring Hope for Single Moms (ZCCT Supports Flood-Affected Communities)," a service initiative that placed women, girls, and vulnerable families at the center of disaster response following severe flooding in Tuao, Cagayan.

The project reached 100 beneficiaries, including 60 solo parents and senior citizens and 40 schoolchildren, through the distribution of food, bedding, hygiene supplies, household recovery materials, and educational kits. By helping solo mothers and women-led households regain stability while supporting children's continued access to education, the initiative addressed the unique challenges that women and girls often face in the aftermath of disasters.

More than an emergency relief effort, Restoring Hope for Single Moms demonstrated the power of compassionate service through collaboration among ZCCT members, local government units, barangay officials, school personnel, the Parent-Teacher Association, and community volunteers. This collective effort enabled assistance to reach those who needed it most while strengthening partnerships that support long-term community resilience.

The project likewise reflected ZCCT's commitment to responsible stewardship of resources by mobilizing member contributions, in-kind donations, sponsorships, and community support to maximize assistance for beneficiaries. Through its sustainable and replicable approach to service, the initiative continues to demonstrate how local partnerships can create meaningful opportunities for women, girls, and vulnerable communities.

This recognition affirms the Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao's continuing commitment to advancing Zonta International's mission of building a better world for women and girls through compassionate, responsive, and sustainable service.

Congratulations to the ZCCT Service Committee, all club members, partners, and volunteers whose dedication and generosity made this achievement possible.

30/06/2026

New Horizons: ZCCT Holds First GMM for Biennium 2026–2028

TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN - Setting the tone for the new biennium, the Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao (ZCCT) convened its first General Membership Meeting (GMM) on 29 June 2026, at the Villa Blanca Hotel in Tuguegarao City.

The club was presided over by ZCCT President Maria Milagros Fernan-Cayosa, who laid out the club's roadmaps and plans for the next two years. Demonstrating a shared commitment to global service and advocacy, the general membership actively participated in framing the club’s new operational structures.

The GMM’s agenda focused heavily on establishing identity, formalizing leadership successions, and planning upcoming activities:

1. Presentation of the overview for Biennium 2026–2028;
2. Creation of dedicated communication chat groups;
3. Preparations for the turnover and induction ceremony;
4. Setting of schedules for future regular meetings;
5. Exchange of notes between previous and current officers;
6. Finalization of official club uniforms and attire, including casual sports shirts, smart casual wear, and formal business attire; and
7. Discussion of other institutional matters.

A major focus of the GMM was organizational continuity. President Fernan-Cayosa recognized the accomplishments of the previous administration led by Immediate Past President Josefina T. Sedano and underscored the importance of a smooth leadership transition. Formal channels were also established for the turnover of notable programs and service initiatives that advance the club’s mission of empowering women and children in the community.

Following the adjournment of the business meeting, the club transformed into a warm celebration honoring the club's June birthday celebrants. The festive gathering provided a meaningful space to strengthen member’s sisterhood, deepen camaraderie, and build a motivated front for the journey ahead.

09/06/2026

Thank you for the feature, Zonta International!

Zonta leaders and members from across District 17 Area 4 gathered for the 2nd Area 4 Biennium Meeting to reflect on the impact of the 2024-2026 biennium.
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From advocacy to climate justice initiatives, discover how Area 4 clubs continue to make a difference in the lives of women and girls throughout their communities: https://bit.ly/4aBfBQB

28/05/2026

Highlights from the Zonta International District 17 Area 4 Meeting

A gathering of empowered women leaders, united in service, fellowship, and advocacy. Our shared accomplishments and celebrations reaffirmed our commitment to building a better world for women and girls through Zonta.

Our gratitude to all the district, area, club officers and members whose presence, dedication, and teamwork made the event truly memorable.✨

24/05/2026

2ND AREA 4, DISTRICT 17, ZONTA INTERNATIONAL MEETING HELD AT THE SCENIC STA. ANA IN NORTHERN CAGAYAN

STA. ANA, CAGAYAN - Marking the triumphant conclusion of the 2024 - 2026 biennium, the Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao (ZCCT), the Zonta Club of Tuguegarao (ZCT), the Zonta Club of Aparri (ZCA), and the Zonta Club of Northern Cagayan and Apayao (ZCNCA) jointly hosted the 2nd Area 4 Biennium Meeting from 16 - 17 May 2026 at the scenic coastal municipality of Sta. Ana, Cagayan, gathering prominent women delegates, Zonta dignitaries, members of the Zonta International District 17 Board, and passionate women advocates to celebrate Area 4’s extraordinary achievements while charting a unified course for the upcoming 2026 - 2028 biennium.

The Business Meeting and Report of Accomplishments

The two-day assembly commenced with a vibrant flag parade and entrance of colors, followed by the official call to order by Area 4 Director (AD) Raquel C. Reyes - Aglaua. Among the esteemed dignitaries who graced the event include Area 5 Director and Lieutenant District Governor-Elect Susan Lim, District 17 Nominating Committee Chair-Elect and Past Area Director (PAD) Ligaya Tan-Miguel, District 17 Country Club Creator and PAD Mila Catabay - Lauigan, and Area 4 Ambassador for the Zonta Foundation for Women and PAD Ana Carmela Remigio.

ZCCT President Josefina T. Sedano formally welcomed attendees during the acknowledgment of guests and roll call of clubs while the Guest of Honor, Hon. Nelson P. Robinion, Municipal Mayor of Sta. Ana, represented by Tourism Officer Designate Ms. Diana Rose A. Lopez, was well introduced by ZC Aparri President Liciel Antiporda - Ontiveros. In a powerful message of solidarity, Mayor Robinion lauded Zontians for their transformative influence.

"May you continue to be women who lift instead of judge, choose courage instead of discouragement, and inspire not only through words but through the lives you live every day," Mayor Robinion stated. "I am with you in saying that gender equality is a human right not a female privilege."

A key highlight of the plenary session was the comprehensive presentation of the 12 Club Presidents’ Reports on their activities, advocacies, and service projects in the second half of the 2024–2026 biennium. These comprehensive reports underscored a massive, collective effort toward projects that directly align with Zonta International's global mission. Through an impactful blend of advocacy, service, and climate justice, these initiatives are actively uplifting the quality of life for women and children across the entire landscape of Area 4.

Demonstrating the immense geographical reach and unity of the region, the roster of participating Area 4 chapters includes the:

1. Zonta Club of Baguio
2. Zonta Club of Ilocos Norte
3. Zonta Club of Tuguegarao
4. Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao
5. Zonta Club of Aparri
6. Zonta Club of La Union San Fernando
7. Zonta Club of La Trinidad
8. Zonta Club of Nueva Vizcaya
9. Zonta Club of Isabela
10. Zonta Club of Quirino
11. Zonta Club of Santiago City
12. Zonta Club of Northern Cagayan and Apayao

The Message of Inspiration

Following the President’s reports, District 17 Nominating Committee Chair-Elect Ligaya Tan-Miguel delivered a stirring inspirational message that reminded members of Zonta International's prestigious, singular standing as a general consultative body to the United Nations, particularly within the Commission on the Status of Women.

"There is always pride and inspiration in knowing that only the great in spirit have the heart to serve the least, the last, and the lost," she emphasized. Moving toward the new biennium, she challenged the body: "Do not sleep on the glories that you have attained so far, and go beyond the measure of your present success. Area 4 is a champion area - we are always in the limelight."

The Turnover Ceremony

The meeting also featured a solemn turnover ceremony. In her valedictory address, outgoing Area 4 Director Raquel C. Reyes - Aglaua expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering cooperation of the clubs.

"When I accepted this mantle... I promised to prioritize the bond of our sisterhood and to foster the true Zonta spirit," AD Aglaua reflected. "It has been truly the honor of my life to serve you... Let us continue to make waves and let us push harder than ever for a better world for women and girls." AD Aglaua also summarized the accomplishments of all the clubs in the 2nd half of the biennium, particularly the stronger, more cohesive membership reflecting sustainability and growth.

“In the last year of the biennium, the 12 clubs of Area 4 have engaged in a staggering 580 combined activities touching thousands of lives. In advocacy, we engaged in 456 activities reaching over 389,000 beneficiaries. In service, we embarked on 392 activities touching the lives of more than 156,000 individuals. During the 16 Days of Activism alone, 305 activities reached nearly 250,000 people, most of whom were women and girls,” she announced.

Following the traditional turnover of flags, incoming Area 4 Director Cecilia Pua Phee of the Zonta Club of San Fernando, La Union officially accepted her leadership role. In a warm and unifying gesture, she announced that the beautiful province of La Union will serve as the next seat of leadership for Area 4, inviting all member clubs to converge there for the next leg of their shared journey while pledging to sustain the area’s remarkable momentum.

Closing the formal sessions, District 17 Country Club Creator Mila Catabay - Lauigan highlighted the core essence of the organization, "It is the dedication and determination of leaders and members of the club to make a difference in the lives of women and girls in our community. Let us move forward together, empowered, united, and committed."

Sisterhood, Wellness, and Leadership

The formal proceedings of the meeting ended with a high-energy "Copacabana" Fellowship Night. Celebrating their collective triumphs and deep bonds of sisterhood, each participating Zonta club took to the stage, showcasing their famous dancing prowess and vibrant community spirit.

Throughout the two-day assembly, the solidarity of the Zonta clubs extended into local enterprise as they actively supported a vibrant bazaar organized by ZCCT Zontian Sugar Macarilay. The marketplace featured a stunning array of beautifully crafted clothes, bags, and shoes; processed foods, native accessories, and unique goods, with proceeds bolstering the clubs' respective businesses.

The momentum carried into the following day, which was dedicated entirely to bonding, health, and wellness. Members took part in a rejuvenating yoga session led by ZC Isabela President-Elect (PE) Relle Caranay, an energetic Zumba workout led by ZC Tuguegarao Outgoing President Liza Arroyo, and an immersive tour around the scenic island coordinated by ZC Aparri Outgoing President Liciel Antiporda - Ontiveros.

The gathering culminated in a meet-and-greet among incoming Area 4 Director-Elect (ADE) Ma. Cecilia Pua Phee, Vice Area 4 Director-Elect (VADE) Debbie Pulido, reappointed Area Secretary Helga Anne Treasure L. Ayuyang and the incoming presidents of the 12 Area 4 clubs. As the region transitions into the 2026-2028 biennium, the host chapters and their sister clubs stand united and ready to break new records, expand their advocacy, and continue building a safer, more equitable world for women and girls.

29/04/2026

CAGAYAN PROVINCIAL BOARD COMMENDS ZONTA AREA 4 DIRECTOR JUDGE RACQUEL C. REYES-AGLAUA FOR NATIONAL GENDER ADVOCACY RECOGNITION

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Philippines – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Cagayan has formally commended Hon. Racquel C. Reyes-Aglaua, Presiding Judge of the Regional Trial Court, Branch 10, Tuguegarao City, Area Director for Area 4, District 17, Zonta International, and Professor of Law at the University of Cagayan Valley, for her recognition as a Distinguished Nominee in the 2026 HerStory: Gender Award of Distinction.

Through Resolution No. 2026-12-427, adopted on April 16, 2026, the Provincial Board recognized her contributions to advancing gender equality, strengthening gender-responsive jurisprudence, and promoting inclusive justice.

The recognition was conferred during the 2026 Philippine Women Judges Association National Convention held from March 4 to 6, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. The HerStory: Gender Award of Distinction is a recognition by the Philippine Women Judges Association in partnership with the Supreme Court of the Philippines, honoring exemplary women in the judiciary whose work strengthens institutions and expands access to justice, particularly for women and marginalized sectors.

In its resolution, the Provincial Board highlighted Judge Reyes-Aglaua’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and advancing legal frameworks that protect rights and promote equity. Her work across the judiciary, the academe, and civil society was likewise recognized for inspiring both the legal profession and the communities she serves.

Beyond the bench, Judge Reyes-Aglaua serves as Area Director for Area 4, District 17 of Zonta International, a global organization working to build a better world for women and girls. Her leadership reflects a shared mission of empowering women and advancing gender equality through both institutional and community-based efforts.

The Provincial Board underscored that her distinction brings pride to the Province of Cagayan and affirms the important role of the judiciary and civil society in fostering inclusive and equitable societies.