LEGAZPI CITY – In a significant step towards addressing the critical issue of Violence Against Women (VAW), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V through the Pantawid Gender and Development (GAD) Regional Technical Working Group (RTWG) has conducted a one-day meeting in preparation for the upcoming 18-Day Campaign to End VAW in Bicol Region.

Comprising dedicated individuals committed to promoting gender equality and eliminating VAW in the region, the Pantawid GAD RTWG convened on November 6, 2023, to lay the groundwork for this crucial campaign.

Key outcomes of the meeting included the review of local data and research on VAW, a dry run of the learning session guide for mandatory FDS session on the End VAW campaign, knowledge sharing sessions on laws protecting women and an audio-visual presentation shoot. A detailed timeline and action plans were also devised for each day of the 18-day campaign.

According to Archie T. Mendoza, GAD focal person, the Pantawid GAD RTWG is committed to working collaboratively and tirelessly to ensure the success of this crusade. Their aim is to not only raise awareness about VAW but also to provide supports and resources for those affected, and to build a safer community for everyone.

For this year, the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW will center around the recurring six-year (2022-2027) theme “UNITEd for a VAW-free Philippines”. This is set to officially launch on November 25, 2023, and will continue until December 12, 2023.  All community members, partner organizations, and concerned citizens are invited to join in this effort to raise awareness, educate, and eliminate VAW in Bicol.