By Karren Jay G. Asgar
Attendees of the short program during CPU’s observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women gather for a photo opportunity at the Alumni Promenade Concert Park on December 12, 2024.
On December 12, 2024, the Central Philippine University joined the observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women. The event took place at the Alumni Promenade Concert Park, featuring educational booths and free legal consultations.
The event was made possible through the joint efforts of GAD Chairperson Dr. Jelvit Amor Alicante; Gender and Development (GAD) Committee; and with the participation of the CPU-College of Law. The event began with an opening prayer led by Prof. Rea Angelica F. Villeza, GAD Committee member, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem.
“We are gathered here to support our country’s initiative that is particularly the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women which commenced on November 25 and concludes today, December 12. However, it doesn’t mean that we will stop our campaign against violence towards women,” CPU-Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate said in her opening message.
The Communications Office Director, Rev. Dr. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, shared a thought-provoking biblical reflection, encouraging everyone to re-read the Scriptures and discover how Jesus valued women. He highlighted that Jesus entrusted the most significant message of His resurrection to a woman, Mary Magdalene. Additionally, Jesus engaged with the Samaritan woman at the well, teaching her profound spiritual truths.
Rev. Dr. Jalando-on also emphasized that Central Philippine University trains both men and women to become pastors, reflecting the inclusive nature of the gospel. He recounted the historical roots of this practice, noting that women were the first to be taught in the Bible School by the late Anna V. Johnson. Later, men received biblical training under Rev. Dr. William O. Valentine, the first principal of Jaro Industrial School.
Lornajane R. Altura, a law student practitioner, presented the rationale for the Legal Clinic, after which Prof. Maria Fe B. Dequito, a member of the GAD Committee, presented the rationale for the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women.
The success of this campaign is a powerful reminder that ending violence against women requires collective action from every part of society, and Central Philippine University (CPU) is devoted to becoming an example in this very important cause.