Quezon city: The Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday reiterated its commitment to protect the rights and welfare of women across its sector. The DND made the commitment in observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), which is being held from Nov. 25 to Dec. 12.
According to Philippines News Agency, 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. Espino, who chairs the DND Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System, stated, "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."
Espino highlighted that the success of the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW is a triumph for "Bagong Pilipinas" (New Philippines). The event also featured talks from Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) Chairperson Ermelita Valdeavilla and Navy reservist and actor Lt. Commander Jose Sixto 'Dingdong' Dantes III.
In recognition of its efforts, the DND was awarded a plaque for Exceptional Performance in GAD Budget Allocation and Utilization for FY 2024, highlighting exemplary gender-responsive budgeting within the agency. The 18-Day Campaign to End VAW this year carries the theme "UNiTEd for a VAW-free Philippines," spearheaded by PCW.
The campaign aims to accelerate the implementation of the National Action Plan to End Violence Against Women, particularly at the local level. It seeks to mobilize the youth to speak out against violence, raise awareness, and advocate for a VAW-free future. Additionally, it empowers men to be proactive allies by promoting respectful behavior, challenging harmful norms, and supporting gender equality.
The campaign also encourages bystanders to take action, break the silence, and intervene safely and effectively, as well as aims to mainstream VAW prevention across various sectors.
