The symposium entitled “Love, Sex, and Everything In Between” was a thought-provoking and engaging event that took place on December 5, 2023 at Isabela State University- Roxas Campus.  The said event is a program collaboration of Guidance and Counseling Unit and the University Medical Unit, with the Philippine National Police- Roxas Station and the Rural Health Unit of Roxas Isabela .The symposium aimed to guide students on understanding about sexuality and proper caring of their body,  increase their awareness on the alarming and rising number of HIV-AIDS  and other sexually  transmitted diseases, enlighten them about the legal impediments of sexual harassment and the non-consensual sex, guide students on the different perspectives of love, sex, and everything in between on such related issues. The program was attended of nearly 350 by  the  first  year students from different departments of the University as stated in SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being.

The Sub-theme “ ‘Sex and Hygiene’ I care about myself” the Head Nurse of The Municipal Health Unit,  Ms. Imelda G. Velasco, RN discussed about the Adolescent and Youth Development and focus on what are the issues and problems the student are facing such as sexual behavior and accountabilities for themselves, teenage pregnancy, and some topics about HIV-AIDS and its global situation.  Data shows the rampant increased of HIV-AIDS cases in the Philippines affecting young ones. Ms. Velasco also discussed the preventive measures and how to avoid  contacting disease on the risks of  unprotected and pre-marital sex.

Violence against women and children is a pervasive and deeply rooted issue that transcends geographical, cultural, and socioeconomic boundaries within this area PCPT Lucas focused her discussion,  considering that many cases of violence against women and children remain unreported, breaking the chains of violence is not only a moral imperative but a collective responsibility for building a just and equitable environment for the community. PCPT. Djoanna Marie Lucas of the Philippine National Police- Roxas Station shared and also discussed about Discrimination,  Discrimination Against Women, Anti- Rape Law of 1997 (RA 8353) and Rape Victim Assistance and Protection Act of 1998 (RA 8505), REPUBLIC ACT NO.7877 or the Anti-Sexual Harassment in relation to Work, Education or Training-related.

The “Love, Sex, and Everything In Between” symposium has provided a comprehensive platform about young relationships, taking care of oneself, equal protection and safeguarding of ones welfare toward abuses. Attendees left with a deeper understanding of the diverse perspectives surrounding, love, sex, and everything in between successfully promoted dialogue that encourages a more inclusive and informed society. The symposium’s success is a testament to the importance of continued education among students, with these kind of issues related to their sexuality, all these as essential aspects  of the daily life experience.