Lakambini Campaign
"Lakambini" is the official Women's Month campaign of the Golden Z Club of the University of Makati, centered on celebrating the strength, resilience, and contributions of Filipina women. As its inaugural initiative, the campaign aims to create meaningful platforms that highlight women's stories, amplify their voices, and promote empowerment within the university community.
Under this campaign, the organization launched its first major event, "Lakambini: Lakas at Giting ng Binibini," held on March 25, 2026, at the UMak Auditorium. The event served as an interactive and engaging space where students were able to actively participate in games, discussions, and presentations centered on women's rights, gender equality, and female empowerment.
The program commenced with the singing of the National Anthem, followed by an opening prayer. Greetings from the University Student Council were delivered by Shawn Michael V. Caliboso, President of the Golden Z Club of UMak, who emphasized the importance of recognizing and uplifting women's contributions in society.
A highlight of the event was the special message delivered by Samantha Bernardo, Miss Grand International 2020 First Runner-Up, who shared her personal experiences as a woman in the spotlight and advocated for the continued fight for gender equality. Her message inspired the student audience to embrace their identity and use their voices to advocate for women's rights.
The event also featured a comprehensive presentation on the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act (RA 9262), led by the University of Makati Gender and Development Office. This segment reinforced the importance of maintaining a safe and inclusive environment within the university, assuring students of continued support and protection.
As part of the broader "Lakambini" campaign, the organization also introduced "Lakambini: Linyang Babae, Kwentong Sarili," a short-form video contest that showcased diverse narratives of womanhood. With seven entries, participants shared powerful stories ranging from motherhood and education to personal growth and identity. Anchored on the theme "Recognize the Remarkable," the contest highlighted the lived experiences and strength of women in different contexts.
The winners of the competition were: Champion: Romalyn D. Garcia from the Institute of Social Work; First Runner-Up: Estrera, Marie Sairel L. and Isidro, Dwayne Kiane M. from the College of Innovative Teacher Education; Second Runner-Up: Montero, Je-anne Marte T. and Ballion, Charile B. from the Higher School ng UMak.
In her closing message, Marcy Kohchet-Chua, President-Elect of the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs, Inc., emphasized that the future of the Philippines lies in the hands of the youth, expressing her appreciation for the initiative and her optimism for future collaborations.
More than a single event, the launch of "Lakambini" marked the beginning of a sustained advocacy. As the program concluded, the Golden Z Club of UMak reaffirmed its commitment to continue empowering women and fostering inclusive spaces. With more activities lined up for April, the organization invites the community to stay engaged, as this campaign is only the beginning of a growing movement for change and empowerment.
