Southern Luzon State University (SLSU) demonstrated its strong commitment to promoting gender equality and community safety through its active involvement in the 2025 Provincial Men’s Day celebration held on November 18, 2025, at the Quezon Convention Center.
The celebration opened with the Men’s Walk and a Holy Mass. Men Opposed to Violence Everywhere (MOVE) Quezon Chapter President, Mr. Bernardino P. Torno, welcomed the participants and emphasized the crucial role of men and boys in supporting gender-responsive development. Likewise, provincial leaders echoed messages of unity, accountability, and sustained support for GAD programs.
Vice Governor Anacleto Alcala III and Governor Angelina “Doktora Helen” Tan delivered inspirational remarks reaffirming the province’s commitment to empowering families and advancing gender equality. A keynote message from MOVE Honorary Chair, Engr. Ronnel M. Tan, delivered by Doc. Kim Tan urged men to be steadfast partners in ending gender-based violence.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Quezon recognized the high-performing Local Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (LCAT-VAWC) for their exemplary efforts in addressing VAWC cases and strengthening community protection mechanisms. Atty. Rhaetia Marie “Sunshine” Abcede-Llaga also delivered a session on “Women in Leadership,” highlighting challenges faced by women and the vital role of men as allies.
In the afternoon, candidates for Ginoong MOVE and Ginang VAW Desk Officers competed onstage, with Assoc. Prof. Rene P. Zubieto, SLSU GAD Director, serving as one of the judges. A TikTok Live Presentation added creativity and engagement to the program.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Atty. Generson Paul H. Mercado, who thanked partners and advocates for strengthening gender-responsive development in the province.
The 2025 Provincial Men’s Day Celebration showcased Quezon Province’s dedication to building communities where men and women, together with committed institutions like SLSU, actively work to advance equality, empowerment, and the elimination of violence against women and children.
SLSU’s participation not only strengthened collaboration between the university and Quezon Provincial Government but also reinforced SLSU’s advocacy for creating safer, more gender-responsive communities. Through their engagement, SLSU helped amplify awareness on ending violence against women and children and contributed to advancing gender-sensitive initiatives across Quezon Province.
Article and Layout: Jayson M. Caperiña
Photos: Quezon Provincial Information Office