For the province of Iloilo, this initiative means renewed advocacy and collective commitment.
As we usher in a new decade, the fight against Violence Against Women (VAW) takes center stage in the province of Iloilo. The Iloilo Provincial Government, in collaboration with the Provincial Gender and Development Council (PGADC), is leading the charge with the HIMBON: Kahilwayan sa VAW Symposium. Simultaneously, other residents and their local government units (LGUs) in the province are making a visible stand by donning orange accents and signing a pledge of commitment to end VAW. This synchronized effort signifies a collective resolve to create a safer, more equitable society.
The significance of the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW cannot be overstated, and the events unfolding in Iloilo showcase a multi-faceted approach to addressing this pervasive issue. While some LGUs opt for symbolic gestures, others, like the Iloilo Provincial Government, recognize the need for in-depth discussions and knowledge dissemination.
The HIMBON symposium held at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol Lobby on December 2, 2022, is not just a gathering; it's a strategic initiative to inform and empower participants on the situation and legal safeguards protecting women from gender-based violence.
At the helm of this advocacy is Governor Arthur R. Defensor, Jr., whose commitment to the cause is exemplified through the presence of Atty. Dennis T. Ventilacion at the symposium. Ventilacion's participation underscores the government's dedication to ensuring that the legal framework aligns with the goal of a VAW-free Philippines.
The symposium's speakers were Prosecutor Myra Duremdes and PMajor Ma. Liza B. Nofuente. They brought their expertise to the fore, shedding light on the prevailing situation and legal mechanisms. Their insights equipped attendees, including IPG Administrative Officers, KALIPI, and ERPAT Provincial Federated Officers, with the knowledge and tools needed to actively contribute to eradicating VAW.
Simultaneously, the broader community engagement through wearing orange accents and signing commitment pledges by LGUs sends a powerful message. It signifies that the fight against VAW is not confined to government offices but extends to every corner of society. The orange accents symbolize solidarity, a collective promise to stand against violence and champion women's rights.
"United for a VAW-Free Philippines" is not just a slogan but a guiding principle emphasizing unity's strength. It is a call to action, urging individuals, communities, and government bodies to work hand in hand to create an environment where violence against women is not just condemned but eradicated.
In the years to come, may the spirit of HIMBON and the commitment of the LGUs reverberate, creating a ripple effect that transcends the borders of Iloilo and resonates throughout the entire nation. Together, let us sow the seeds of change, nurture a culture of respect and equality, and build a future where every Filipino woman can live free from the fear of violence.
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