West Visayas State University (WVSU) remained committed in the observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) by launching various advocacy activities as facilitated by the Gender and Development (GAD) Office earlier today, Nov. 25, 2024.
The University’s campaign began with a solidarity dance held at the College of Medicine Gym and led by students from the College of PESCAR in collaboration with other participating colleges and student organizations.
WVSU GAD also celebrated International Men’s Day through simultaneous lectures on financial literacy and dental health held at the College of Dentistry building.
Dr. Jeffrey Ballaret, a faculty member from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), delivered his discussion on financial literacy titled, “Securing Your Financial Future: A Man’s Roadmap”, wherein he highlighted the concept of the 50/30/20 Budgeting Rule and the MACHO Framework that focused on Mindset of Wealth, Aligned Goals, Consistent Savings, Healthy Investment, and Optimized Strategies.
The second topic was discussed by Dr. Lester Joseph Cardenas, associate dean of the College of Dentistry (COD) and assistant focal person of COD GAD. His talk titled, “Beyond the Smile: How Dental Health Affects Men’s Lives,” focused on the fundamentals and trivia of dental and oral health, and how patients can remain disciplined and consistent in improving their oral hygiene.
Capping off the forum, Mr. Saturnino Luke Sobrevega, a CAS faculty member and assistant focal person of CAS GAD, reiterated that the opening of the EVAW campaign and the celebration of Men’s Day served as a collaboration that allows respect, equality, and understanding thrive in society.
“Every action we take to promote [VAW] awareness, strengthen policies, and provide support contributes to a safer and more just world for everyone. At the same time, it is an opportunity to encourage men to engage as allies and role models, breaking stereotypes and building relationships grounded in empathy and understanding,” said Sobrevega.
The 18-day campaign to end VAW is a national advocacy led by the Philippine Commission on Women, and runs from Nov. 25 to Dec. 12, 2024.
