DOJ highlights VAWC initiatives in 18-day drive to end violence vs women

Women’s rights advocates

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Justice (DOJ) reaffirmed its commitment to champion women’s rights as it joined the Philippine Commission on Women’s (PCW) 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), running from November 25 to December 12, 2024.

Leading the DOJ’s kick-off ceremony was Undersecretary Atty. Margarita Gutierrez, a dedicated advocate for women’s rights and empowerment. In her remarks, she emphasized the importance of the campaign, stating, “This moment marks the beginning of a vital journey—a journey powered by unwavering resolve, deep compassion, and the courage to confront the violence that has long scarred our communities. From November 25 to December 12, we come together with one purpose: to break the chains of silence, amplify the voices of those who have been silenced, and demand an end to the violence that shadows the lives of women and children every day.”

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Gutierrez highlighted statistics from the National Demographic and Health Survey, which revealed that nearly 1 in 5 women have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual violence from their current or most recent husband or intimate partner. She also cited data from 2023, which showed that 8,055 cases of violence against women and children, classified under Republic Act No. 9262 (the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004 or VAWC), were reported to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“These 18 days are an opportunity to educate, empower, and take action,” Gutierrez said. “Stand firm against violence in all its forms. Listen to survivors with empathy. Their stories are not just cries for help—they are testaments to courage and strength. When we listen, we heal. When we stand with them, we dismantle the shame and stigma that keep so many in the shadows.”

Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) Undersecretary Nicolas Felix Ty, speaking on behalf of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, reinforced the department’s commitment. “This fight is not just the responsibility of government institutions but of each and every one of us,” Ty stated. “We must hold ourselves accountable and lead by example to foster a society where violence is not just condemned but eradicated.”

The DOJ demonstrated its dedication through initiatives supporting the Safe Spaces Act, including premiering the video Bawal Ang Bastos, which highlighted the department’s commitment to the law’s full implementation. The department also launched a local chapter of Men Opposed to Violence Against Women Everywhere (MOVE), with male employees reciting the MOVE commitment pledge to underscore their role in ending violence against women and children.

The DOJ Action Center (DOJAC) Lecture Series, led by Gutierrez, is another cornerstone of the department’s initiatives. Launched at San Sebastian College of Law on September 30, 2024, the series calls on the country’s future lawyers to play a proactive role in addressing rape and sexual violence by empowering individuals to speak out against perpetrators.

Complementing this effort, Kababaihan, a newly formed organization dedicated to promoting inclusivity in governance and championing women’s rights, introduced its #WagPo campaign, which aims to challenge and end the normalization of rape and sexual violence in the Philippines through powerful advocacy videos.

Other DOJ efforts include participation in the Inter-Agency Councils on VAWC and Trafficking in Persons, establishing a Gender and Development (GAD) and Special Protection Office, and creating a one-stop-shop for victims. These centers provide safe spaces, counseling, and legal assistance.

“Through these initiatives, we are strengthening our legal framework to protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable,” Gutierrez emphasized.

During the PCW kick-off ceremony, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Assistant Secretary Elaine Fallarcuna shared data that underscored the scope of the problem. Barangays recorded 45,480 cases of violence against women from January to December 2023, significantly higher than the 8,055 cases logged by the PNP. Fallarcuna attributed the gap to differences in reporting systems, emphasizing the need for comprehensive data collection.

PCW Chairperson Ermelita Valdeavilla stressed the importance of prevention alongside response efforts. “We cannot focus solely on addressing incidents of violence. To truly end VAW, we must change the behaviors that fuel it,” she said, calling for an integrated approach to prevention and intervention.

Gutierrez encouraged the public to actively support the 18-day campaign by using the official hashtags #VAWfreePH, #FilipinoMarespeto, #SafeSpacesKasaliTayo, and #VowToEndVAW. She invited everyone to share photos and personal reflections online, helping to build momentum toward a VAW-free Philippines.