The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, as chair of the Regional Inter-Agency Committee Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (RIACAT-VAWC) Caraga, led the culmination of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) on December 12, 2025, bringing together regional agencies and advocates in a solidarity gathering.

Caraga State University Vice President for Executive Operations Michelle V. Japitana opened the program with a reminder that the campaign’s conclusion does not signal the end of collective responsibility. “May this activity remind us that while the 18-Day Campaign may culminate, our commitment must not,” she said.

The event’s highlight was the screening of the documentary “Walang Rape sa Bontok,” a thought-provoking film that talks about a “Rape-less” society, tackling factors that make it possible. This is followed by an insight-sharing session where participants reflected on community practices, gender dynamics, and cultural approaches to non-violence.

DepEd Caraga also awarded the winners of the Regional Inter-School Vlog Competition, recognizing student-created advocacy content promoting a VAW-free society. Agusan del Sur National High School emerged as the overall champion. Meanwhile, LGU Nasipit took top honors in RIACAT-VAWC’s Kahi-VAW-lo Ba Ka? Quiz Bowl, showcasing strong knowledge on VAWC prevention and related legal frameworks.

In closing, Commission on Population and Development (CPD) Caraga Regional Director Alexander Makinano, who also chairs the Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) Caraga, emphasized the cultural insight presented in the documentary. “The film we watched was very powerful. It shows us that violence is not a natural part of any culture. Communities can choose respect, societies can choose peace, and Caraga must choose equality. Violence is not a tradition but a distortion,” he said.

DSWD Caraga reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening prevention mechanisms, widening support services for survivors, and sustaining partnerships that advance the region’s goal of a violence-free Caraga. Moreover, extends gratitude to Committee members for tireless support in the Campaign to End VAW.