ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) -- The Police Regional Office (PRO)-9 conducted an information drive at the Mangusu covered court in Zamboanga City to promote awareness of gender and development-related laws. This initiative aims to educate students and residents about gender-related laws, prevent violations, and promote a society that upholds gender equality.

The activity commenced with a session for the students of Mangusu Integrated School, with a total of 100 students from grades 5 and 6 participating in the informative lectures. This was followed by a session for 100 residents of the said barangay.

The lectures covered essential topics such as Gender and Development, Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313), Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002 (RA 9165), Violence against Women and their Children (RA 9262), Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995 (RA 7877), Rape Victim Assistance and Protection Act (RA 8505), Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 (RA 10627), and Crime Prevention and Safety Tips.

By spreading awareness and knowledge of these laws, the police force hopes to contribute to a safer and more inclusive community.

“Gender equality is not just a women's issue - it is an issue that affects us all. By understanding and upholding gender and development-related laws, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed,” said Police Regional Director PBGen Bowenn Joey M Masauding.

The PRO-9 through its Regional Community Affairs and Development Division, Regional Investigation and Detection Management Division, and Zamboanga City Police Station 1 conducted the community engagement which is one of the five-focused agendas of the Philippine National Police. (NBE/EDT/CCP/PIA9 with reports and photos from PRO-9)