The Philippine Army (PA) is joining the nationwide 18-day campaign to end violence against women (VAW), which runs until Dec. 12.
During Monday’s flag-raising ceremony in Fort Bonifacio, Army chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete urged all personnel to actively support the effort.
Nafarrete said the Army continually strengthens gender and development policies as part of its commitment to help eliminate violence against women.
This year’s campaign—“UNiTEd for a VAW-free Philippines”—is led by the Philippine Commission on Women and highlights a whole-of-nation strategy.
Citing the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey, the PCW said 18 percent of ever-married women aged 15 to 49 have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, representing about 4.8 million Filipinas.
The campaign seeks to accelerate the National Action Plan to End Violence Against Women, mobilize the youth to speak out, and encourage men to become proactive allies who challenge harmful norms and promote gender equality.
It also urges bystanders to intervene safely and aims to mainstream VAW prevention across various sectors to ensure a more coordinated national response. Rex Espiritu
