The University of the Cordilleras College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences (UC CONAHS) conducted the morning session of Day 2 of Communidad 2026 on April 28, 2026, focusing on Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) and Bullying Prevention under the theme “Building Safer Communities.” The activity highlighted the importance of awareness, advocacy, and shared responsibility in creating safe, inclusive, and supportive environments for individuals and communities.
The session was hosted by Ms. Sonia Olnanigon and Mr. Heston Sial and featured Atty. Karen Sheila Mang-usan-Degay together with guest speaker Atty. Cheryl L. Daytec-Yañgot. Discussions centered on the legal foundations and significance of Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act and Republic Act 10627 or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013. The speakers emphasized the crucial role of students, educators, healthcare professionals, and community members in early detection, proper reporting, prevention, and advocacy against violence and bullying.
Participants actively engaged in the discussions through interactive activities, intermission performances, and an insightful question-and-answer session that deepened understanding on issues such as gender-based violence, cyberbullying, mental health, and community accountability. The session encouraged participants to become advocates of respect, empathy, safety, and responsible action within their respective communities and future workplaces.
Through educational initiatives such as this, UC CONAHS continues to strengthen its commitment to promoting human rights, mental wellness, gender sensitivity, and safe learning environments while preparing future healthcare professionals to become advocates for compassionate and inclusive communities.
| Sustainable Development Goal | Indicators | Contribution to the Activity |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Indicator 3.4: Promote mental health and well-being | Raised awareness on the psychological and emotional impact of violence, bullying, and abuse while promoting mental wellness and support systems |
| SDG 4: Quality Education | Indicator 4.7: Ensure that all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development | Strengthened awareness, values formation, and social responsibility through educational discussions on VAWC and bullying prevention |
| SDG 5: Gender Equality | Indicator 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls | Promoted gender sensitivity, protection, and advocacy against violence affecting women and children |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions | Indicator 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere | Encouraged safe communities, legal awareness, responsible reporting, and violence prevention initiatives |
| SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals | Indicator 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public-private, and civil society partnerships | Strengthened collaboration among legal professionals, educators, students, and the academic community in promoting advocacy and community safety |
