JRMSU Honors Lives Lost to AIDS During Candlelight Memorial

May 16, 2025 – In a solemn assembly to honor the lives lost to AIDS, the Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU) community gathered at the Main Covered Court to observe the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial 2025, led by University President Dr. Maria Rio Abdon Naguit.

The event was graced by guest Dr. Apple D. Balais-Morandarte, OIC City Health Officer, and included a prayer led by Rev. Fr. John Warren Maratas of St. James the Greater Parish.

During her speech, Dr. Naguit reminded the community: “This memorial serves as a holy reminder: to walk in the light of truth and not be deceived by the world’s shifting morals; to show mercy and dignity to all who suffer—whether through personal choice or undeserved pain; and to honor our own lives by treating the body as the sacred temple God designed it to be.”

With the theme “We Remember. We Rise. We Lead,” JRMSU reaffirmed its commitment to education, empathy, and collective action against stigma and discrimination related to HIV and AIDS.

The event was led by Dr. Genelyn Viadnes, Campus Unit Head, Extension Office under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension headed by Dr. Rizza Bagalanon.

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