PhilRice has kicked off the national advocacy of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) dubbed as the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) with the theme “United for a VAW-free Philippines.”
The national advocacy seeks to heighten public awareness and garner support for multi-stakeholder efforts aimed at eradicating Violence Against Women (VAW).
The 2022 Philippine National Demographic Health Survey released by the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that 18 percent of women aged 15-49 years have experienced forms of physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological violence.
Despite the Philippines ranking-16th globally in gender equality, according to the 2023 Global Gender Gap Index Report by the World Economic Forum, the PCW and other stakeholders recognize ongoing issues of violence and abuse in the country.
Sophia Borja, OIC deputy executive director for Administrative Services and Finance and chair of the Committee on Decorum and Investigation of Sexual Harassment Cases is calling for more advocates, influencers, and champions among the agriculture sectors, and the general public to raise awareness about VAW and how they can support in ending this pervasive social problem.
Likewise, similar activities were simultaneously conducted in the branch stations. Other initiatives included conducting offline and online seminars on VAW-related laws and GAD-related training, wearing of advocacy shirts, and implementing social media advocacy campaigns.
The advocacy is backed by Proclamation No. 1172 and RA 10398, which mark Nov. 25-Dec. 12 as an 18-day campaign aimed at ending violence against women and children. This aligns with the National Consciousness Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC).
