Manila – In a united effort to address violence against women, the Office of the Solicitor-General (OSG) and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) conducted a forum on Wednesday. This initiative is part of the annual 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), which runs from November 25 to December 12, as established by Proclamation 1172, signed by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in 2006.
According to Philippines News Agency, held at the TIEZA Multi-Purpose Hall in Pasay City, the forum emphasized the importance of multi-agency collaboration in combating VAW. Assistant Solicitor-General Arleen Reyes highlighted the need for partnerships, particularly with law enforcement agencies, to enhance government efforts for a VAW-free bureaucracy. Reyes pointed out that sharing real-life cases and advocating for stronger legislative support and partnerships are crucial steps in the fight against such crimes.
TIEZA Assistant Chief Operating Officer Gregory Oller expressed the organization’s readiness to join hands with various entities in the tourism sector and beyond to amplify the campaign’s impact. TIEZA plans to leverage its digital platforms and media partnerships to spread awareness and offer resources on VAW prevention.
National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Commissioner Beatrice Aurora Vega-Cancio shared details of NAPOLCOM’s initiatives like the MOVE program and CODI, focusing on nationwide gender sensitivity training and support for women’s empowerment.
The forum, aligning with this year’s campaign theme, ‘Strengthening Integration of Advocacy, Service, and Commitment towards creating a VAW-free environment in the Bureaucracy,’ saw participation from various other agencies. These included the News and Information Bureau, Aurora Pacific Economic and Freeport Authority, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, among others.
Additionally, DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos reiterated the importance of the continuous fight against gender-based violence, emphasizing the non-partisan nature of the PCW-led campaign. Abalos urged the maintenance of the campaign’s integrity, emphasizing its focus on human rights protection for women and young girls.