“The University of Eastern Philippines (UEP) hosted this year’s One Billion Rising solidarity movement, a campaign geared toward addressing the social issues that women face around the globe, today, Feb. 17, at the UEP Grandstand.

University students, faculty, and staff, along with representatives from the Provincial Government of Northern Samar and the Department of Education (DepEd) Division of Northern Samar, gathered for the campaign, which started at 5:52 in the morning. Participants performed the movement’s key dances, “Break the Chain” by Tena Clark and “Isang Bilyong Babae Babangon” by One Billion Rising – Philippines.

After the performances, Ms. Maria Teresita R. Gacusan, Provincial Gender and Development (GAD) office, GAD Focal Person, delivered her welcome remarks, highlighting this year’s theme “Rising against fascism,” emphasizing the oppressive nature of the world.

“This is a call to action it reminds us that true freedom is more than just the absence of physical oppression it is the presence of justice, equality, and human rights,” she said.

Following this, Dr. Blenah Perez, GAD Focal Person, introduced the guest speaker for the event, Ms. Nyneil T. Cerbito, a senior highschool teacher in Rawis National Highschool known for her skits on Facebook as “Buranday”, delivering his comedic takes as student and teacher in the province.

Ms. Cerbito further explained that the violence against women effects as all, emphasizing that is not only a women’s issue but a human issue. She also highlighted how women find strength while facing this concern.

“If there is something that women know how to do it is to find strength and sometimes laughter even in the hardest of times,” she said.Ms. Cerbito ended his speech by encouraging everyone, especially men, to take part in the cause for a better future.

Recognizing the contributions of women and the importance of women empowerment university president, Dr. Cherry Ultra, emphasized that everyone should be given a chance to pursue their ambitions.”This is a representation regardless of their social and personal underpinnings to enroll professionally and pursue it,” she said.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Michelle D. Caguimbal, Department of Education, Division of Northern Samar, Administrative officer, gave the closing remarks for the event, reminding the attendees that the fight for women and gender equality should not be restricted to the event alone.

“Our revolution does not end here we must continue to rise with this against every wall of systems of oppression,” she said.