On September 11, 2025, the ASEZ branch in Las Piñas, Philippines, hosted the RCT (Reduce Crime Together) Forum to promote crime prevention and raise civic awareness.
The theme of the forum was “A Safe Society Built by Individual Participation and Unity,” emphasizing the creation of sustainable local communities through public awareness and cooperation.
Approximately 600 participants attended the event, including former Senator Cynthia Villar, Marianne Kristel, daughter of incumbent Senator Bato Dela Rosa, along with university vice presidents, deans, the Las Piñas police spokesperson, a doctor from the Department of Health, and many university students.
According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), over 400,000 people around the world lose their lives to homicide every year. In particular, the Philippines has an intentional homicide rate of 6–8 per 100,000 people, exceeding the global average of 5–6. Threats such as assault, child abuse, domestic violence, drugs, terrorism, and cybercrime remain prevalent throughout society.
In the opening address, an ASEZ representative stated,
“Today, we gather here to seek solutions to one of humanity’s most pressing challenges — crime prevention — and to build a safer and more peaceful Philippines. To achieve this, the change of one person is vital. The fundamental solution to reducing crime begins with a change in personal values and attitudes.”
The representative added, “I believe that as university students and leaders from various sectors unite their efforts, we can realize a safe and inclusive society, and ultimately, the dream of peace for all humankind.”
Former Senator Cynthia Villar delivered congratulatory remarks, saying, “Peace and safety are extremely important, and strong legal measures alone are not enough. They must begin with our values. I’m truly pleased to see ASEZ, the university students participating in such forums and taking action to transform our value system.”
Marianne Kristel, daughter of Senator Bato Dela Rosa, also praised ASEZ’s initiative, stating,
“I sincerely thank ASEZ for recognizing the importance of reducing crime and for its tireless efforts toward this cause.”
In addition, several national leaders—including Senators Bato Dela Rosa, Loren Legarda, Mark Villar, and Camille Villar, as well as Parañaque Mayor Edwin Olivarez and the Vice Mayor of Manila—sent video messages commending ASEZ’s efforts. University students from around the world also joined via video to celebrate the event.
During the main session, Jeric M. Tialon presented on “Cybercrime Security,” emphasizing that “Recognizing and understanding various types of online scams is the first step to preventing cybercrime victimization.”
ASEZ members Jhon Carlo Orsolino and Candisse Eustagquio introduced ASEZ’s diverse crime prevention activities conducted across the Philippines.
As part of the Reduce Crime Together project, ASEZ has held seminars and campaigns in universities and high schools throughout the country—including Manila, Davao, Antipolo, Iloilo, General Santos, Quezon City, Tarlac, Valenzuela, and Mandaluyong. ASEZ has also led community and environmental initiatives such as the “Zero Plastic 2040” campaign, cleanup drives, tree planting, and visits to orphanages and special schools. These efforts have earned ASEZ numerous awards and commendations from government officials, including deputy ministers of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, city mayors, and city council chairpersons.
During the forum, six MOUs were signed between ASEZ and key institutions. Participants also joined a pledge of support stating, “We support ASEZ’s crime reduction agenda.”
The offices of former Senator Cynthia Villar and Senator Bato Dela Rosa, as well as the Las Piñas Police Department, presented official certificates of appreciation to ASEZ and pledged full support for its initiatives in crime prevention and social stability.
Alongside the forum, the event featured an orchestra performance, a choir concert, photo zones, and panel exhibitions, all of which received enthusiastic responses from attendees. Participants reaffirmed the importance of crime prevention, moral development, and community cooperation.
On September 17, ASEZ was invited to appear on PTV, one of the Philippine government-owned national television networks, to showcase its wide range of activities.
ASEZ continues to lead efforts to build a crime-free society based on sound moral values and is committed to creating a sustainable future through various global initiatives.