Monette Cruz : Inspiring Change Through Purposeful Giving
A single mom from Olongapo City, Philippines, our ACTivist of the month – Monette Cruz – is a passionate advocate for ending domestic violence. She is the founder of I-Pilipino, a social enterprise turned NGO, and a skilled freelance consultant specializing in business and graphic design.
From a young age, Monette was inspired by her family’s deep involvement in community service, and today, she continues to honour that legacy through her work. One of her most cherished childhood memories is playing with orphans every week and helping to feed them, a formative experience that sparked her lifelong commitment to helping others.
Let’s dive deeper into Monette’s journey, in her own words.
Monette, can you tell us more about yourself and your family?
I’m a single, full-time mother to my youngest child, who faces anxiety and trauma. I also run my NGO, I-Pilipino and work as a freelance consultant. My other children are now adults, each leading their own paths. I have two grandchildren, and am taking care of my 85-year-old mother, who is battling Alzheimer’s.
I was raised by my maternal grandparents after my parents divorced when I was eight. My father, a U.S. serviceman, and my mother, a full-time teacher, had careers that often kept them away, so my grandparents took on a major role in my upbringing. They were very active in the community, and I grew up seeing them open our home to relatives, neighbors, and even strangers in need. From a very young age, I was taught the importance of giving back and serving the community.
How did you become an ACTivist for Spring ACT?
In November 2023, I attended the launch event for Chatbot Sophia in Quezon City, where I connected with staff from the Embassy of Switzerland. This led to an introduction to Spring ACT. When I expressed my interest in expanding the chatbot’s reach across the country and supporting their mission to end domestic violence, I was invited to join the Sophia Council. Since then, I’ve been an active member of the council.
Tell us briefly about your role at Spring ACT?
As a member of the Sophia Council, I’m working strategically to help improve and expand the chatbot’s services throughout the Philippines. Our goal is to provide accessible, confidential, and compassionate support for those experiencing domestic violence.
In the context of the Philippines, why do you think Chatbot Sophia is useful?
According to the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey, more than 17% of Filipino women aged 15-49 have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence from their intimate partners. This issue is deeply rooted in societal norms – which are patriarchal and conservative – often silencing survivors and encouraging them to endure, especially for those within a marriage.
“Chatbot Sophia therefore can be truly useful in helping people facing abuse. It makes them aware about signs of toxic relationships, their rights, their options, and resources available – providing them a way to be rescued. Given the country’s cultural and social norms, the Chatbot’s feature to maintain confidentiality allows users to seek support safely. Given its zero-cost feature, it also ensures that support is available for individuals from all walks of life.”
Why are you passionate about ACTivism?
As a survivor myself, I feel a deep connection to this cause. My own experiences, combined with my upbringing in a family dedicated to community service, have molded me to not be okay and encourage change for all forms of injustices.
What’s your most memorable moment with Spring ACT?
I think for me the most memorable moment is when I first learned about Chatbot Sophia. It just hit me home and inspired me to be a part of it. Sophia Council allows me to lend my voice as a survivor and advocate for others who too deserve an abuse-free life..
Why do you think it is important to be involved in activism and social justice work?
“I believe that everyone has a responsibility to those around us. We have a role to play in the community and it is imperative to not be a bystander to any injustices, and instead, dand contribute in whatever way we can.”
What advice would you give to someone interested in volunteering?
“You’ll never know what impACT you can have on others. Even if it scares you, even if you don’t know how you can contribute, if you have the heart for it, do it.”
What do you think sets Spring ACT apart from other organisations working towards similar goals?
I believe Spring ACT stands out because of its approach-maximising technology and timely (modern even) methods, all without downplaying the seriousness of the issue.
Can you share a quote that inspires you and explain why it holds special meaning for you?
It would be my own quote:
“There should be unity in diversity. And we could find this with our purpose-to serve, to help, and to make a difference.”
What does an injustice free world mean to you?
A world where everyone stands up for what is right, seeks peace but also voices concern where required. A world that does not allow anyone to feel alone or hopeless.
“Where words are not tamed but change a nation, where there is truth even in silence, and no one is shamed.
Monette’s journey and vision for a better world ignite a powerful call to action. As we celebrate Monette, we are reminded of the importance of standing up, speaking out, and working together to end domestic violence and create a more just world.
-Written by Ahona Azad Choyti for Spring ACT
