Violence against women (VAW) has no place in a just and equitable society and yet, based on the National Demographic Health Survey in 2017, one out of four Filipino women aged 15-49 has experienced physical, emotional or sexual violence from their husband or partner.
VAW is a grave violation of women’s rights, and it continues to persist due to deeply-rooted issues of gender discrimination and inequality in the country. It further places women and girls at a disadvantage in an unjust, patriarchal society that treats them as inferior citizens. Given this, there are various state measures and mechanisms put in place to address the issue.
Among them is the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW, an annual advocacy campaign held from November 25 to December 12 as mandated by Proclamation 1172 s. 2006.
But it will take more than a proclamation to end the systemic violence that is directed against women and girls, and it will take more than 18 days to dismantle the structures that perpetuate this violence. This is why on this year’s National Consciousness Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Children, the Office of the Minority Floor Leader reaffirms its long-standing commitment to stand in solidarity with women and children, especially in the Bangsamoro, and to continue fighting for their rights and welfare at every opportunity.
#VAWFreePH #VAWFreeBARMM #18DayCampaignToEndVAWC
