20 years of RA 9262
December 2, 2024 — The Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) officially launched its 2024 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) during the weekly flag-raising ceremony on Monday at the General Education Building.
Facilitated by Ms. Ampharo A. Espinosa, ASCOT’s Gender and Development (GAD) Director, the event highlighted the campaign’s theme, “VAW Bigyang Wakas, Ngayon na ang Oras!” The initiative aims to raise awareness and call for collective action against violence targeting women. “Ang mga unreported cases ay maaaring ako, ikaw, mga kasamahan sa opisina, o kakilala na tahimik na nagstruggle. Sa pamamagitan ng kampanyang ito, maaari silang matulungan. Nagkakaroon tayo ng pagkakataong maabot at matulungan ang mga indibidwal na ito, na madalas ay nagkukubli sa kanilang pagdurusa, upang maibigay ang suporta at solusyong nararapat para sa kanila,” Ms. Espinosa reiterated.
Faculty members, staff, and students gathered despite the gloomy weather to express their commitment to the advocacy. Ms. Imee Connie S. Dumlao, from ASCOT Legal Office emphasized on her short talk the importance of fostering a violence-free community. “Ang kaalaman tungkol sa sexual harassment ay mahalaga para sa ating mga estudyante at kapwa ko empleyado. Kaya kung sakaling kayo ay makaranas ng ganitong pang-aabuso, huwag tayong matakot tumindig at magkaroon ng boses upang ipaglaban ang ating sarili at mga karapatan.”
ASCOT’s efforts align with the national movement to end gender-based violence, reaffirming its dedication to promoting inclusivity and equality.