On April 30, 2026, the Maayon Civic Center hosted a gathering for 77 local solo parents. The theme was "Hindi ka Nag-iisa sa Iyong Pag-iisa: Yakap at Kalinga para sa Solo Parent": you are not alone in your solitude.
Who made it happen
The program was led by the Local Government Unit of Maayon, headed by Municipal Mayor Hon. Raymond D. Malapajo, RN, with the support of Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer Mrs. Aimie Aguiling-Suelo. JCI Roxas Halaran was a partner, and JCI Roxas Makawiwili co-hosted. The chapter thanks the LGU for giving it the chance to bring its advocacies to Maayon.
The celebration served as a local implementation of Pinay Power, JCI Philippines' program for women's empowerment.
The program
The gathering went beyond a typical celebration. It gave solo parents a space to share their stories and build lasting connections. Two guest speakers spoke:
- Ms. Teresita B. Villaruz, President of Solo Parents in Roxas City, on women's empowerment
- Mrs. Zenaida M. Calusay of RCCWOI, on Radiance
The message to every participant was that their resilience is valued and that a community walks with them. In the chapter's words, every sacrifice deserves recognition and every story deserves to be heard.
This was not the chapter's first work in Maayon. In April 2025 it held AgriTatay for local farmers, and THE FORGE, a mentorship day for solo fathers.
Want to help families like these? Support the chapter.