Strengthening efforts against gender-based violence, the University of Northern Philippines College of Law, its Law Alumni Association, and the Center for Gender and Development convened legal experts, advocates, and students in an online lecture on December 6, 2025 to advance justice and amplify legal protections for women.
The lecture series aimed not only to deepen public understanding of women’s rights, but also to equip participants with practical knowledge on accessing justice. Speakers walked the audience through legal processes—from filing complaints and seeking protection to pursuing appropriate remedies under the law. Legal experts also examined key statutes safeguarding women, tackled procedures for prosecuting Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) cases, and outlined administrative mechanisms that address sexual harassment and other workplace abuses. Together, the discussions emphasized the importance of legal literacy in preventing violations and ensuring accountability.
The program highlighted the expertise of distinguished alumni from the University of Northern Philippines College of Law, who are now recognized professionals in their respective fields. Atty. Edwin Concepcion opened the discussions by highlighting the importance of laws that safeguard women and advance their rights, emphasizing how legal protections empower victims to seek justice. This was followed by Prosecutor Joseph Darren Centeno, who offered an in-depth look into the handling and prosecution of cases involving violence against women and children, outlining the legal processes and challenges faced in bringing offenders to court. Rounding out the roster of speakers,
Atty. Leilani Vecina walked participants through the administrative remedies available for workplace harassment, explaining procedures and mechanisms that ensure accountability in professional environments. Together, the speakers provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of how the law responds to gender-based injustices from multiple fronts.
The program formally opened with an address from the College of Law OIC Dean Atty. Vercelie Limos, who emphasized the importance of strengthening legal awareness on women’s rights within academic and professional communities. This was followed by a message from Atty. Katrynn Louise Eder, OIC Director of the Center for Gender and Development, highlighting the role of legal education in promoting a more responsive and gender-sensitive justice system.
The lecture proper featured an in-depth yet accessible discussion of each topic, enabling participants—from students to practicing professionals—to better understand both the legal framework and its real-world application. The event concluded with closing remarks from Atty. Ignatius Tablada, Extension Coordinator and President of the Law Alumni Association, who emphasized the continued responsibility of legal practitioners to advance protection and justice for women.
The event demonstrated a strong collaborative effort to empower women, educate the public, and encourage proactive bystander intervention. Participants left with a deeper understanding of legal protections and concrete steps to support survivors of violence all from the safety and accessibility of their screens.
Article by Atty. Haysheryl V. Salamanca
