On December 12, 2025, the Don Delfin B. Albano Gymnasium in Matusalem, Roxas, Isabela became more than just a venue for celebration—it transformed into a powerful platform for advocacy, empowerment, and social responsibility. The Advocacy Pageantry: Mr. Divo and Ms. Divas 2025, organized by Student GADvocates, showcased how creativity, youth leadership, and community collaboration can advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those centered on gender equality, peace, and inclusive societies.
The program opened with dynamic performances by BSE 1 and BSIT 2D students, followed by patriotic and institutional hymns, setting a tone of unity and shared purpose. Key messages delivered by academic leaders and administrators highlighted the role of education in shaping socially responsible citizens—strongly aligning with SDG 4: Quality Education, which emphasizes inclusive and equitable learning opportunities that promote lifelong advocacy and civic engagement.
At the heart of the event was its commitment to ending violence against women (VAW), directly supporting SDG 5: Gender Equality. Through advocacy speeches, empowerment serenades, and the question-and-answer portion, the candidates demonstrated awareness, critical thinking, and compassion in addressing gender-based violence, respect, and safe spaces. These segments allowed students to voice meaningful perspectives and propose solutions, reinforcing the importance of youth participation in social change.
The presence of the Guest of Honor, PCOL Edith D. Narag from the Police Regional Office 02, further strengthened the event’s advocacy by bridging education and law enforcement. Her message underscored shared responsibility in building peaceful communities, reflecting the principles of SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. The commitment wall signing and photo opportunities symbolized collective accountability and sustained action beyond the event itself.
Intermissions and creative numbers, including talent presentations and the Orange Icon Attire Walk, blended artistry with advocacy, proving that awareness campaigns can be both engaging and impactful. These activities fostered collaboration among students, faculty, ROTC officers, and community members—an embodiment of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, which highlights the power of multi-sectoral cooperation in achieving sustainable development.
The culmination of the program through the awarding of winners, certificates, prizes, and tokens celebrated not just individual excellence but collective effort. More importantly, it recognized the sustained commitment to the 2025 18-Day Campaign to End VAW, reminding participants that advocacy is a continuous journey.
On the same note, Mr. Divo and Ms. Divas 2025 proved that pageantry can transcend aesthetics and competition. When grounded in purpose, it becomes a meaningful educational tool that empowers youth, amplifies voices, and advances global goals at the local level. Through this advocacy-centered event, the institution reaffirmed its role in nurturing champions of equality, justice, and sustainable development—one empowered student at a time.
More Photos: 18-DAY END VAWCY