Every individual can help stop violence against women, children and gender-based sexual harassment.

During the 18-day campaign to end violence against women and children last November 25 to December 12, 2021 the Philippine Commission on Women with the support of other government agencies including the Department of Welfare and Social Development intensifies the campaign to help the victims of sexual abuse, especially amidst the pandemic.

As part of the campaign, the City Government of Zamboanga through the Gender and Development Section of the Office of the City Mayor conducted a webinar dubbed “Seminar on GAD and Prevention of VAWC” on December 4, 2021 targeting Women and Children Protection Officers the participants.

The aim of the webinar is for everyone to be reminded about the laws pertaining to the protection of women and their children and for everyone to be vigilant of any violence that may happen. The city emphasized that the Barangay VAWC desks is ready to respond 24/7.

Based on the record and reported cases to the Commission on Human Rights, there are 66 cases of rape in women and children for this year 2021. 

Have you experienced or do you know someone who is a victim of violence and harassment? You can help and support them through implementing mechanisms in your different organizations and offices. Here are what some sectors can do:

For Government and Private agencies, equip yourselves with training and capacity development to improve service delivery to your clients. Also provide measures to prevent gender-based sexual harassment in the workplace.

For your barangays, ensure the Barangay VAW Anti-Sexual Harassment desk is functional and promote harmonious community relationships in your barangay.

For public establishments, provide a safe gender-sensitive environment to encourage victims to report gender-based sexual harassment at the first instance.

To every women, men and LGBTQ+, empower yourself and respect everyone in your workplace, home and community. Speak out and report to the authorities in case your rights are being violated and if you witnessed any forms of violence.

If one experiences any forms of violence, one can immediately seek help from the police office women and children protection desk near you.

To know more on the rights of women visit PCW website through this link https://bit.ly/3INw2Kj. (RVC/EDT/MLE/PIA9-Zamboanga City)