It is indeed a GAD day when the Batanes State College (BSC) joins this significant event – the 18-day campaign to end Violence Against Women (VAW) – on December 12, 2025 at the BSC Amphitheater. Participated by the faculty members, administrative staff, 4th year students, and Supreme Student Council (SSC) Officers.

Setting the tone of this activity, Ms. Romina Katrina B. Bernardo, Director for Administrative and Finance Services, said that this a celebration of our shared commitment to protecting the dignity and rights of everyone in our community. While the campaign ends, our responsibility to act as advocates, protectors, and educators continues. She focused her remarks by sharing the SEHDANG core values of BSC.

College President, Dr. Djovi R. Durante, delivered an inspiring message relating the Parable of Orange and the novel “Life of Pi” which symbolizes hope and survival. He reminds the faculty, staff, and students not to weaponize the law. He further stressed the importance of respecting women and children such as providing them the opportunity to participate in decision-making.

The lecture on Republic Acts 9262 and 11313 was discussed by the very eloquent lecturer, Judge Glenda V. Antolin-Pazziuagan. She made the law easy to understand and interesting to learn.

SSC presented their version of the “Do the Macho Choir Challenge”. Also, the campaign featured Infographic and Photography contest, and the winning students were recognized. Congratulations to all the winners.

Everyone joined in a Unity Dance promoting the message “Step to empower, Dance to Inspire: Isang Bilyong Babae, Bangon!”

To wrap up the event, Ms. Doreen Castillo, Director for College Business Affairs Office, said that the real success of this campaign will be measured by our consistent actions. Let us work together to build a BSC community defined by dignity, equality and free from VAW.