November 24, 2025 – The Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) formally launched the nationwide 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) during its Monday Convocation on November 24, 2025, signaling a renewed call for awareness, solidarity, and action within the campus community.
Carrying the national theme “VAW Bigyang Wakas, Ngayon na ang Oras” and the general theme “UNiTEd for a VAW-free Philippines,” the opening marked the beginning of the college’s intensified efforts to support the United Nations UNiTE Campaign and strengthen institutional commitment to a violence-free environment.
In his message, GAD Unit Head Dr. Joey V. Pardeño underscored the background and policy mandates behind the national observance, emphasizing the importance of sustained advocacy in both academic institutions and local communities. He stressed that eliminating violence against women requires not only awareness but also collective accountability.
Adding color and meaning to the kickoff was a slogan parade featuring various student-based organizations, each showcasing artworks and visual messages advocating the end of VAW—transforming the campus grounds into a vibrant display of youth participation and creative activism.
A symbolic pledge and signing of commitment followed, led by Mr. Joseph P. Valencia, Guidance Counselor Designate. DEBESMSCAT officials, personnel, and students posted their pledges on the “VAW-Free Wall,” affirming their roles as allies and advocates.
Opening activities also included the hanging of the official campaign streamer of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) with key officials and GAD coordinators, and the distribution of information, education, and communication (IEC) materials to raise wider awareness among the academic community.
As a visible sign of solidarity, faculty members, non-teaching personnel, and students wore orange, the global color symbolizing freedom, equality, and a future free from violence.
The campaign will run from November 25 to December 12, 2025, with DEBESMSCAT set to host a series of activities aimed at strengthening protection mechanisms, promoting gender-responsive systems, and sustaining a campus culture grounded in respect, empowerment, and safety for all.
Ladies and gentlemen,
