Violence against women is increasing all over the world. In Cebu, one out of three women experience violence ranging from beating to rape in their lifetime.
According to Leny Ocasiones, chairperson of Gabriela Cebu, the statistics of women being abused is alarming. In the Philippines, she said, a woman gets raped every four hours.
One Billion Rising is a global advocacy to end violence against women with the theme Strike, Dance, Rise! held a solidarity meeting at Ayala Terraces in the afternoon of Valentine’s Day.
Simultaneous Strike, Dance and Rise! events were held in Metro Manila and key cities like Davao, Cagayan de Oro and Ilo-ilo.
“We are bringing the education and awareness to mall-goers. It’s a way of reaching out to more women.”
She said women should not remain silent since it will only lead to oppression. “Because of the culture of silence, women continue to be abused and exploited.”
She added education is a vital component in fighting the culture silence.
On the other hand, Lihok Pilipina head Tessie Fernandez, said that the increase of reporting incidents to the violence against women in the barangays as prescribed to Magna Carta on Women, is a positive indicator that more women are now brave enough to seek help for their problem.
The Strike Dance and Rise! In Cebu was participated in by women professionals in the private and public sectors, women advocacy groups and students from University of the Philippines – Cebu, St. Theresa’s College, University of San Carlos and University of the Southern Philippines./With reports from USJ-R Intern Michelle Joy I. Padayhag