Santo Nino College Foundation, Inc. (SNCFI) stood at the forefront of regional advocacy as one of the 15 Host Higher Education Institutions selected by the Commission on Higher Education Region XII for the official launch of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women. The event, held on November 24, 2025 at the KCC Convention Center in General Santos City, gathered institutions committed to advancing safety, equity, and human dignity in the region.

Coordinated by the National Bureau of Social Protection and Inclusion (NBSPI), the program opened with the symbolic distribution of orange ribbons, followed by a unified prayer, hymns, and the national anthem. SNCFI was represented by Dr. Jun Y. Badie, the Academic Director; Juliet A. Castañas, the Quality Assurance Officer; Dr. Noel Domalogdog, Program Head of the College of Criminal Justice Education; Marianne Bucay, who serves as Gender and Development Coordinator; and Ruzty Donaire, the Special Needs and Cultural Education Coordinator. Their attendance reflected SNCFI’s strong commitment to advocacy-driven education and community engagement.

One of the afternoon’s defining moments was the “Orange the Region” pledge, where participants affirmed their shared responsibility in cultivating communities where safety is upheld and violence is never tolerated. Regional leaders emphasized the essential role of Host HEIs in shaping cultures of accountability and empowering students to challenge systems that enable gender-based violence.

A focused discussion on Safe Spaces for persons with disabilities and senior citizens highlighted the need for an inclusive approach to protection, acknowledging the heightened vulnerabilities faced by these groups. This was followed by the unveiling of the Pledge of VAW-Free CHEDRO XII, a formal declaration of long-term commitment to prevention and empowerment. The screening of The Unspoken Words: VAW in Schools provided a sobering look at the realities faced within educational settings, prompting renewed calls for strengthened protective systems on campuses.

SNCFI’s role as a Host HEI reinforces its dedication to fostering a campus where well-being, respect, and safety are integral to the learning environment. This advocacy strongly supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) by prioritizing the physical, emotional, and mental security of students, faculty, and staff.

The institution’s involvement also advances SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). By championing the rights of women, PWDs, seniors, and marginalized communities, SNCFI strengthens its commitment to inclusivity and equity. This leadership encourages continuous improvement of gender-responsive policies, student support systems, and culturally sensitive practices—ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to thrive.

SNCFI’s visibility as one of CHEDRO XII’s Host HEIs sends a clear message: the institution is not only a center of learning but a community partner dedicated to building a safer, more compassionate society.

The launch concluded with renewed regional solidarity and a shared understanding that the fight against violence must be persistent and collaborative. As one of CHEDRO XII’s Host HEIs, SNCFI remains steadfast in advancing a future where dignity is protected, disparities are reduced, and every individual can live free from violence.