MANILA, (PIA) — The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) kicked off its annual 18-Day Campaign to End Violence against Women on Monday, highlighting the persistent challenge of gender-based violence in the country.
Speaking at a commemorative event marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, PIA’s first female Director-General and GAD Chairperson Katherine Chloe S. De Castro emphasized the global scale of the issue, noting that an estimated one in three women worldwide experience violence.
“Despite our progress, we have a long journey ahead toward true equality,” De Castro said.
She, however, encouraged everyone to unite in this campaign and expressed the agency’s commitment to ending VAW.
“Bilang kapwa babae at isang ina, I encourage everyone, mapa-babae o lalaki, pati ang mga miyembro ng ating LGBTQIA+ community, to come together during this campaign and recognize that PIA supports not only by preventing discrimination at our workplace, but also in responding to end violence against women,” De Castro added.
Recent data from the Philippine Statistics Authority reveals a stark reality: one in five women has experienced emotional, physical, or sexual violence from a current or former intimate partner.
The Philippine National Police reported 8,055 cases under the Anti-Violence against Women and their Children Act in 2023, a significant increase from 10,690 cases in 2022.
The agency’s campaign extends beyond traditional awareness efforts. PIA plans to hang informational tarpaulins, illuminate their office sign in orange, and post awareness materials.
The organization is also encouraging social media engagement using hashtags such as #VAWfreePH and #FilipinoMarespeto.
The campaign notably emphasizes inclusivity, recognizing that violence affects not only women but also LGBTQIA+ individuals, the elderly, and children.
In February, PIA presented a position paper to the House of Representatives’ Committee on Women & Gender Equality, supporting legislation to ensure equal rights during public health emergencies and disasters.
The campaign will run for 18 days, calling on all regions to develop local programs aimed at ending violence against women. (AVS/PIA-NCR)
(Photo courtesy: PIA Creative Production Services Division)
