IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay (PIA) – Boxing and arnis equip individuals with essential self-defense skills. To promote this, the provincial government organized training through its Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System and Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Committee to promote women’s safety.
Boxing, which builds confidence through strikes, footwork and endurance, and arnis, a Filipino martial art centered on stick fighting and close combat, were taught to provide participants with practical methods to defend themselves in real-life situations.
In partnership with the Zamboanga Sibugay Police Provincial Office, the training aimed to boost confidence and response to harassment. Provincial government employees, interns, stakeholders and agency representatives joined, showcasing commitment to women’s safety.
Jennie Tomo, a student from Barangay Caparan, travels daily to and from school, always staying alert for safety. After joining the self-defense training, she gained renewed confidence and recognized the importance of being prepared for any situation.
“At least now, I have basic knowledge of how to defend myself if someone tries to harm me,” Tomo said.
As part of National Women’s Month, the training provided self-defense techniques, building resilience, sharpening alertness and developing effective responses to threats.
Stephanie Glenn Pasaforte, GAD focal of the provincial government, underscored the importance of the initiative in empowering women to protect themselves.
“Teaching women practical self-defense techniques like boxing and arnis helps keep them safe and sends a strong message against gender-based violence,” Pasaforte said.
Law enforcement officers led the sessions on defense techniques, situational awareness and threat response, supporting the provincial government’s efforts to combat violence and promote women’s safety. (EDT/RBI/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay)
