Soroptimist International of the Americas
Philippines Region (A Foundation),Inc.
Soroptimist Week
SIA President Kazuko Morita's message to SIAPR
August 2022
Proclamation No. 1072, s. 1997 Declaration of Soroptimist Week
Soroptimism is founded on two things: friendship and service activities of executive, business and professional women united by the ideals of Soroptimism – the sincerity of friendship, the joy of achievement, the dignity of service, the integrity of profession, and the love of country; (read more)
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Birthday of Mariquita Castelo - SIAPR Founder
Mariquita Castelo, the founder of Soroptimist in the Philippines was a well-loved person, kind, soft spoken, intelligent, an inspiration to many.
The ninth of eleven children, she was born in a small town of Sto. Domingo, Nueva Ecija on August 30, 1912. She finished her grade school and secondary education in Nueva Ecija and her BSE from U.P. at the age of 19.
She became the first Girl Scout of the Philippines National Executive. Her fascination with Girl Scouting explains the total change in her life. She said that “I found the realization of all my philosophies and beliefs in life”.
A remarkable and inspiring woman is Mariquita. She remains calm and cheerful even under stress. When she sets her mind to achieve something she works with courage and determination, working tirelessly to reach her goal.
Mariquita Castelo’s life story is interwoven with the empowerment of young girls and women in this country through the Girl Scout of the Philippines and the Soroptimist Organization.
Soroptimist International of the Americas Philippines Region (A Foundation) Inc. celebrate Soroptimist week from August 24 to 31 in honor of Mariquita S. Castelo. Every 30th of August, Soroptimists especially those from Metro Manila celebrate a memorial mass at the Manila Memorial Park where she was laid to rest, offer flowers at her tomb, have photo opportunities and share delicious snacks brought by the participating clubs.
Soroptimist clubs all over the country are enjoined to have their respective activities to celebrate Soroptimist week. Memorial Mass, service projects and meaningful community activities are being held.
