ISU joins nationwide 18-Day Campaign to End VAW; convenes university-wide gathering

Isabela State University (ISU) formally took part in the nationwide observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) through a university-led gathering held last December 1, 2025, at the ISU-Echague Amphitheater. 

Bringing in together students, faculty, staff, partner organizations, and campus delegates, including representatives from ISU–City of Ilagan Campus, the university-wide gathering reflects the institution's support to a violence-free society, especially against woman and their children. 

The program opened with an introduction to the national campaign’s history and purpose, emphasizing the importance of collective involvement in raising awareness on gender-based violence. 

In addition, the Orange Icon Ceremony was also conducted—a symbolic pledge of ISU’s commitment to supporting the safety and dignity of women and girls across the university.                                              

ISU President Dr. Orlando “Boyet” Batang, duly represented by Dr. Precilla Delima, Vice President for Academic Affairs, delivered a message of support, highlighting the institution’s ongoing work in strengthening gender-responsive services, education, and advocacy within the ISU system.

Moreover, as one of the event’s major highlights, the Knowledge Management System (KMS) for the University Gender and Development (GAD) Office which was developed and presented by Dr. Mark Renel Molato, GAD Focal Person of ISU San Mariano, was launched.    

 The KMS aims to centralize gender-related policies, resources, reports, and learning materials through its 
features explained by Molato through a live demonstration, with an emphasis on its role in strengthening GAD documentation and accessibility across all campuses.

Additionally, the University also formalized a new partnership with Mengal Women through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). 

The said collaboration seeks to enhance community engagements, develop joint programs, and expand support services related to women’s empowerment and violence prevention beyond the campus setting.              

 Furthermore, to deepen the audience’s understanding of violence against women, the event also featured an educational lecture on Republic Act 9262, or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 led by Atty. Mary Grace Marcos, Attorney IV of the Commission on Human Rights Region 2.

Atty. Marcos’  talk covered the different forms of VAWC, the law’s implementing rules, available protection orders, reporting pathways, and the shared responsibility of institutions like ISU in assisting survivors and preventing abuse.

Anchored on the theme, “United Voices: ISU’s Call to Action for Safe Spaces, Brave Voices, and Zero Violence,” the event served as a space for reflection, encouraging participants to reflect on the role of schools and communities in promoting equality, respect, and accountability.  

Ultimately, with initiatives that combine advocacy, education, partnership, and technology, the gathering further strengthened ISU’s commitment to a violence-free environment for all—its continuous support to national efforts toward a society where women and children are protected, empowered, and heard.#

Written and Photos by Cherry Talon