Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. actively participated in the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women through a meaningful and impactful launching program held at the KCC Convention Center in General Santos City on November 24, 2025. Organized by NBSPI and supported by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across the region, the event brought together committed advocates united in the call for a VAW-Free Philippines.

The program opened with a warm welcome and the distribution of orange ribbons, symbolizing collective resistance against violence toward women. Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. was represented by Dr. Jovita J. Felongco, Academic Consultant; Sheeva Abenido, LPT, Gender and Development Officer; Mark Laurence J. Fano, LPT, MALT, CHRA, Director of the Department of Student Affairs and Services; and Theresa Limson, BECED Faculty. Together, they joined fellow HEIs in demonstrating solidarity and commitment to this vital advocacy.

The afternoon began with the Solidarity Stand, “Orange the Region,” facilitated by Dr. Maria Teresa L. Samonte, Chief Administrative Officer, and Dr. Annabelle R. Dafielmoto, Education Supervisor II and GAD Focal. This was followed by an insightful discussion on creating safe spaces for PWDs and senior citizens, delivered by Ma. Erlina Michelle A. Tatel of NBSPI and KPHI, reinforcing the importance of protecting society’s most vulnerable groups. A keynote message from Dr. Rody P. Garcia further inspired participants with a compelling call to strengthen unity, compassion, and action in building communities free from violence.

The event continued with cultural performances, the unveiling of the Pledge of VAW-Free CHEDRO XII and HEIs, and an open forum that encouraged reflection on the region’s ongoing efforts to eliminate gender-based violence. Participants also viewed the powerful video “The Unspoken Words: VAW in Schools,” which underscored the urgent need to address violence within educational environments. Dr. Justfer John Aguilar, USM–KCC GAD Focal, delivered a meaningful synthesis of the video, highlighting the shared responsibility of institutions to uphold safe and respectful learning spaces. The program concluded with heartfelt closing remarks from Dr. Jovita J. Felongco, followed by a photo opportunity.

Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. underscores that its participation extends beyond attendance. The delegation will re-echo the knowledge, insights, and best practices they gained to the entire school community, strengthening institutional awareness and fostering a culture of safety, respect, and gender equality within the academic environment.

This event served as a day of reflection, unity, and purposeful advocacy—a decisive step toward building a safer and more inclusive society for all. Together, we stand firm and steadfast in advancing the cause of a VAW-Free Philippines.

In alignment with global development efforts, this initiative directly supports SDG 5 on Gender Equality by advocating for the elimination of violence against women and girls; SDG 10 on Reduced Inequalities by promoting the protection and empowerment of vulnerable groups such as PWDs and senior citizens; SDG 16 on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions by fostering safe, inclusive, and accountable communities; and SDG 4 on Quality Education through re-echo activities that ensure continuous learning and institutional awareness.

As we move forward, Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. remains committed to transforming advocacy into action—empowering our community, protecting the vulnerable, and promoting a future where every individual lives with dignity, safety, and respect.