Women in AFP urged to speak up on abuses

Armed Forces chief Gen. Carlito Galvez urged potential female victims of abuse to speak up, amid the military’s heightened efforts to support the advocacy to end violence against women.

“I urge every woman to come out and speak against those who will attempt to violate your rights. The AFP leadership will not tolerate anyone who disrespects women, and we shall always be one with you in fighting for women empowerment and gender equality,” he was quoted as saying at the flag-raising ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo on Monday.

“We are continuously conducting activities that enlighten our soldiers and civilian personnel on women’s rights, especially on the working space,” he also said.

Monday marked the start of the 18-day United Nations’ International Day for the End Violence Against Women global campaign. It runs until Dec. 12.

‘Treat women with respect’

At a separate flag-raising ceremony, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana called for respect to women and pointed out that the workplace is a good place to start awareness.

He urged employees to be sensitive in choosing one’s language and avoiding jokes that objectify women.

“Kapag nagkamali ng biro ang mga kasama natin, o kahit mas nakakataas pa sa atin, huwag tayong tumawa,” he was quoted as saying.

“Simpleng respeto lamang para sa ating kapwa tao – anuman ang kanyang kasarian, ang susi para mawakasan ang karahasan laban sa kababaihan o kanino man sa ating lipunan,” he added.  /muf