ILOILO CITY (PIA) – – The Governance Center and iconic landmark of the province of Guimaras has been lit up in orange color, aimed at sparking conversations and inspiring collective action to address violence against women and girls.
The visual spectacle highlighted the kick-off ceremony for the 18-day campaign to End Violence Against Women in Western Visayas organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 6 and hosted by the province on November 25, 2024 at the Provincial Capitol Grounds, San Miguel, Jordan.
It also marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women to raise awareness about the need for a violence-free community.
Tourism Regional Director Crisanta Marlene P. Rodriguez said that bringing the campaign to Guimaras is part of their effort to elevate the initiative across provinces in the region.
“Guimaras, widely celebrated as the mango capital of the Philippines, is a gem that continues to draw visitors eager to experience its natural wonders and warm hospitality. Among the many highlights of the island is the iconic “IGuimaras” landmark, an enduring favorite for selfies and groufies among tourists. Beyond being a popular tourist attraction, this illuminated landmark will spark public curiosity, serving as a powerful visual statement to initiate conversations on ending VAW,” said Rodriguez.
The campaign, with orange as its official color, runs until December 12 and is anchored on the theme “UNITED for a VAW-Free Philippines” with a sub-theme “VAW Bigyang Wakas, Ngayon na ang Oras.” It calls on individuals and institutions to take proactive roles in preventing gender-based violence.
Department of Social Welfare and Development Region (DSWD) 6 Director Arwin O. Razo who also chairs the Regional Inter-Agency Committee Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (RIACAT-VAWC) said that data for the first quarter of 2024 shows that there are around 2,700 cases of gender-based violence in Western Visayas of which 92% of the victims are women and girls.
The activity is also the re-affirmation of the agency’s commitment to intensify efforts to protect women and children.
“The time to act is now and we must all rise to the challenge of creating safer, more inclusive communities where violence is no longer tolerated,” Director Razo said.
The event was attended by Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Region 6 PIO III Christopher Montaño, Governor JC Rahman A. Nava MD, Vice Governor John Edward G. Gando, SP Members Cecile C. Gumarin and Alejandro Araneta.
Guimaras Police Provincial Office Director Police Col. Rhea Santos joined the activity and gave her message of support.
The 18-day campaign is part of a nationwide initiative supported by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) and other advocacy groups. The active participation of Guimaras demonstrates its commitment to fostering an inclusive and safe environment for all. (AAL/LAF/PIA6-Iloilo/Guimaras PIRU)
