The Department of National Defense (DND) has reiterated its commitment to protect the rights and welfare of women across their sector, in time with the current observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) from Nov.ember25 to Dececember 12.
During the flag-raising ceremony at the DND grounds at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, Defense Senior Undersecretary Irineo Espino emphasized their continuing commitment to mainstreaming gender equality and strengthening institutional mechanisms for women’s protection.
“Our collective actions bring us closer to a VAW-free DND and a VAW-free Philippines. Let us remain guided by our duty to end violence against women,” said Espino, who chairs the DND Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System.
The success of the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW, he said, is a triumph for the “Bagong Pilipinas.”
Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) Chairperson Ermelita Valdeavilla and Navy reservist and actor Lt. Commander Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes III also delivered talks during the rites.
The DND was likewise awarded a plaque of recognition for Exceptional Performance in GAD Budget Allocation and Utilization for FY 2024, honoring exemplary gender-responsive budgeting within the agency. This year’s event carries the theme “UNiTEd for a VAW-free Philippines.”
The campaign aims to accelerate the implementation of the National Action Plan to End Violence Against Women, especially at the local level; mobilize the youth to speak out against violence, raise awareness and actively advocate for a VAW-free future; and empower men to be proactive allies by promoting respectful behavior, challenging harmful norms and supporting gender equality.
It also seeks to encourage others to take action, break the silence and intervene safely and effectively, and mainstream VAW prevention across various sectors. (With PNA)