“Ramonians unite for One Billion Rising campaign

A sea of red-clad students filled the Magsaysay Boulevard at President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU) as about two thousand Ramonians moved in unison to the beat of ‘Bangon, Babae, Bangon’ during the 2025 One Billion Rising (OBR) campaign of the Gender and Development (GAD) unit, on Friday, February 14.

OBR, the world’s largest mass action to end violence against women, transforms Valentine’s Day into a call for justice, solidarity and empowerment.

With the theme “Break The Chain,” Dr. Marlon James A. Dedicatoria, Vice President for Research and Development, underscored the campaign’s significance in his opening remarks, highlighting its role in fostering unity against violence.

“This is a symbol of our unity to promote women’s rights and make a strong statement that violence is unacceptable in our society,” Dr. Dedicatoria said.

“Today, coinciding with Hearts Day, is a good opportunity for us to see the importance of OBR as a symbol of love and care,” the vice president added.

At the end of his remarks, he thanked everyone present and participating in the event and emphasized the significance of coming and working together for ‘a fair and happy world for all,’ saying, “At PRMSU, we can do it, as long as we work together.”

Dr. Paulino Laguer, Physical Education (PE) Department Chairperson, stressed how the OBR campaign has evolved with themes that highlight critical issues.

“This year, the focus is on combating gender-based crimes, particularly rape and sexual assault against women. This advocacy aligns with the Magna Carta of Women, which upholds the protection of women’s rights and the elimination of violence,” Dr. Laguer shared.

Following the PE students’ performance of the unity dance, the event’s highlight, Dr. Zenvi Ann Macalinao, Dean of the College of Teacher Education, closed the day’s first segment by thanking the participants and organizers.
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Report by Bianca Orua
Photos by Cyron Matampac, Janrew Pasol, Jhyzza Maye Encarnacion, John Nelson Abagon”