CSU, ZONTA CLUB INK MOA TO STRENGTHEN ADVOCACY AGAINST INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE

July 24, 2025 – Cagayan State University (CSU) and the Zonta Club of Tuguegarao City have formalized a partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) aimed at advancing gender equality and women empowerment, particularly in addressing intimate partner violence.

Dr. Arthur G. Ibanez, CSU Officer-in-Charge, and Zonta President Ms. Liza Mora-Arroyo signed the MOA, which centers on the dissemination and application of the completed CSU research study entitled “Breaking Cycles of Abuse: Empowering Women Through a Primary Support Program and Advocacy Intervention in Intimate Partner Violence." The study was spearheaded by Dr. Chona P. Agustin and her research team from the College of Business, Entrepreneurship, and Accountancy.

Through the agreement, CSU commits to providing Zonta Club with research findings and educational materials, while offering technical consultation and extending support for aligned advocacy efforts.

In turn, the Zonta Club will integrate key findings into its ongoing and future community programs, promote awareness campaigns, and ensure ethical use of CSU's outputs.

The Zonta Club of Tuguegarao, part of a global network of over 7,000 Zonta clubs in 63 countries, has long championed women’s rights and gender-responsive advocacy in the region.

With this new collaboration, both parties look forward to creating broader impact through research-based, community-driven approaches to support women affected by violence.

The MOA will be in effect for one year, with provisions for renewal and joint activities such as training, public forums, and advocacy campaigns.