“ You can always tell who the strong women are. They are the ones you see building one another up instead of tearing each other down” – Unknown

This day pinned a significant event as the country celebrates the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW). With the theme “UNITED for a VAW-free Philippines”, the Philippine Public Safety Academy together with the National Forensic Science Training Institute (NFSTI) led a program to support the campaign. The activity was incorporated with the traditional flag-raising ceremony participated by the PPSA personnel and staff, cadets, NFSTI staff, and CRIDEC students.

The flag-raising ceremony was followed by the said campaign with a series of activities such as the Launching of the Orange Exhibit that signifies the commencement of our steadfast support for the near 2-decade campaign. Next is the Presentation and writing of the Freedom Wall which is open to all to write on and express their commitment to VAW, especially for women and girls. In addition, a Commitment Statement of all male participants for the MOVE (Men Opposed to Violence Everywhere) was made where everyone pledged non-violence, especially against women and girls. It highlighted the commitment to the Safe Spaces Act which is a significant step towards creating a more just and equitable society where women and girls can feel safe and respected in all aspects of their lives. By working together, we can ensure that the provisions of the law are effectively implemented and that sexual harassment is eradicated which aims to protect women and girls from sexual harassment in all public spaces, including streets, workplaces, educational institutions, and online platforms.

A window was opened for them to advocate for policies that promote gender equality and prevent VAW, such as policies that address workplace harassment, promote gender-equitable education, and set a positive example by modeling respectful behavior towards women in their personal lives and in public settings. This includes treating women with courtesy, kindness, and consideration, and avoiding actions or words that could be perceived as disrespectful or demeaning.

The theme highlights the power of combined individual efforts towards a collaborative and united thrust for a VAW-free Philippines. It emphasizes the importance of collective action and solidarity in addressing VAW, encouraging everyone to create a society where women and girls feel safe, respected, and empowered.

The 2023 campaign is geared towards various key areas to address VAW. First is Prevention: Promoting a culture of prevention through education, awareness-raising, and advocacy campaigns to challenge harmful gender norms and stereotypes that perpetuate violence against women. Second, Protection: Strengthening legal and institutional mechanisms to protect women and girls from violence, ensuring access to justice and support services for survivors. Third, Empowerment: Empowering women and girls with the knowledge, skills, and resources to assert their rights, make informed decisions, and live free from violence. Lastly, Accountability: Holding perpetrators of VAW accountable for their actions, ensuring prosecution and appropriate punishment, and promoting a culture of zero tolerance for violence against women.

The 18-Day Campaign to End VAW is a significant initiative that brings together various stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, private sector partners, and individuals, to work together towards a VAW-free Philippines. By uniting efforts and taking collective action, we can create a society where women and girls can thrive and live free from violence.