Sharing different stories of violence against women and children that she has witnessed in her life, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Dr. Michelle Aguilar-Ong reiterated the real meaning of Orange the World Day (or Orange-It Day) to the participants of the culminating program of the 18-day End Violence Against Women and Children (EVAWC) campaign at the Dr. Ernesto T. Nicdao Sports Center on December 12, 2025.
“Orange-It Day means when you feel you need a friend, I am here,” she said. “You might be the only one online at 12 midnight, and they can see you in Orange-It Day, and you may be the first to save lives.”
She further said that Orange-It Day is a very strong statement where you are advertising to others that you are an ally and you can be depended on.
Dr. Aguilar-Ong, who also serves as Chairperson of the University’s Board of Regents, also lauded the different programs initiated by the various units, offices, colleges, and campuses, emphasizing that they should not just be mere compliance but a voice for those who are silent.
On the other hand, University President Dr. Enrique G. Baking also recognized the milestones of the Gender and Development (GAD) activities of the University in his opening remarks, citing the significant achievements received in recent years.
“May I take the privilege to share that the University has been recognized by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) for its exceptional commitment in allocating and utilizing the 2024 GAD Budget, ranking 7th among schools for client-focused allocation and knowledge for organization-focused allocation,” Dr. Baking stated.
“Moreover, we are also being certified by PCW as a national GAD Resource Institution, affirming our role as the model for Gender-Responsive Programs and Policies, with positive observations from the Commission on Audit,” he further shared.
The 18-day EVAWC campaign was led by the Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS), headed by Dr. Dolores T. Quiambao, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services and Director for GFPS.
The culminating activity also held the GADtimpala 2025 awarding of winners and special citations that contributed to the GAD initiatives in observance of the 18-day EVAWC campaign.
Below is the list of awardees and finalists for the GADtimpala 2025:
Awardees
• GADtimpala Best Non-Academic Unit - Office of Student Welfare and Formation
• GADtimpala Best Academic Unit – Lubao Campus
• GADtimpala 2025 Hall of Famer – Mexico Campus
Finalists (Non-academic)
• Occupational Safety and Health Office
• Library Services Office
• Office of Student Affairs and Development
• Office of Student Admissions and Support Services
Finalists (Academic)
• Laboratory High School
• Candaba Campus
• School of Law
• College of Education
Photo credits: Public and Media Affairs Unit
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