22/03/2026
EMPOWERED INSIDE OUT: WOMEN’S MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING
The event is a Zonta Area 5, District 17 of Zonta International dedication to Women’s Month. It aimed at creating a safe, informed and empowering space to examine women’s mental health as both a personal and collective concern. Grounded in Zonta’s global advocacy for women’s rights and gender equity, the forum responds to the growing emotional , psychological and social pressures faced by women across life stages and roles.
By bringing together voices from policy, psychology and advocacy, the forum sought to deepen understanding women’s mental wellbeing through culturally responsive , gender-sensitive and compassion driven perspectives. Thus, affirming the empowerment that begins from within and is sustained through supportive systems and informed action.
A powerhouse of speakers filled the minds of the Zontians with rich content from their education, work and experiences.
Professor Jholyan Fornillos
The talk started with Professor Jholyan Fornillos from the Department of Social Sciences of Sociology-Anthropology-Psychology of the University of the Philippines . As a licensed Psychologist, Jholyan has extensive experience in providing mental health and psychological support particularly in disaster and crisis settings.
Dr Gail Galang
From a successful and interest filled forum last November with Area 5, Dr Gail Galang was called once more to share her knowledge and experiences. Her expertise is in family counseling,blended families.
Dr Sylvia Claudio
A Filipino physician, psychologist, academic and feminist activist known for her work on gender, sexuality, sexual and reproductive health and rights in the Philippines. A Professor Emeritus and former dean at the University of the Philippines Diliman’s Collefe of Social Work and Community Development , she bridges medical practice, psychology and social development in both scholarship and advocacy. She is also a co-founder of Likhaan Women’s Center, an NGO providing reproductive health services to marginalized women. Also a prominent voice in advancing women’s rights, feminist counseling and social justice, shaped by her involvement in activism since the Martial Law period.
Area 5 Director Susan Lim spearheaded this event together with the presidents of the different organizations of the area.
