Today, November 25, 2024, the Palawan State University (PalawanSU) community joins the 18-Day Campaign to raise awareness about ending Violence Against Women (VAW). The campaign was officially launched at the PalawanSU landmark, with the theme “VAW Bigyang Wakas Ngayon na ang Oras,” calling for immediate action against gender-based violence.

Violence Against Women (VAW) remains one of the country’s most pervasive social issues. To address this, various measures and mechanisms have been implemented over the years. One key initiative is the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW, an annual advocacy campaign observed from November 25 to December 12, as mandated by Proclamation 1172 s. 2006. This campaign serves as a critical platform for educating the public, encouraging dialogue, and rallying support to combat all forms of gender-based violence, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.

At the launch event, Dr. Marjorie A. Española, Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension at PalawanSU, emphasized the importance of raising awareness as a vital first step in combating VAW.

Dr. Maila N. Lucero, Vice President for Academic Affairs, delivered an inspirational message that resonated with the audience. She shared an acronym that reflects the mission of the campaign – WOMEN: W – Worth; O – Opportunity; M – Mindset; E – Empathy; N – Nurture. She encouraged the audience to stand in solidarity and advocate for a society free of violence. Dr. Lucero also urged everyone to embody the values of respect, empathy, and care within the university, emphasizing the importance of valuing oneself and each other.
Dr. Janet Oab, Faculty Union President, called for action and led a symbolic act—the blowing of the whistle—to draw attention to the cause. The whistle, a symbol of resistance and solidarity, marked a powerful moment during the event, calling for immediate action to end violence.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Venzon L. Limpiada, delivered by Mr. Francisco III O. Baluyut, who urged the audience to become active participants in the movement to end violence. Dr. Limpiada called on the PalawanSU community to be champions of change, taking responsibility for helping to end all forms of violence and contributing to a safer society.

The campaign will continue throughout the coming weeks, with additional activities designed to maintain the momentum of this important cause. The PalawanSU community is committed to advocating for a society where violence against women and children no longer exists, and where everyone has the right to live free from fear, discrimination, and harm.