The 18-Day Campaign for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, which kicked off on November 25, 2024, featured a series of impactful activities aimed at raising awareness about gender-based violence and promoting gender equality. A key component of the campaign was the printing of the Primer on laws protecting the rights of children, a project of the Legal Service. This Primer provided an overview of important laws designed to safeguard children from abuse and exploitation. In addition, an exhibit chronicled the Philippine Gender and Development (GAD) journey, offering a visual representation of the country’s progress in advancing gender equality. The “Orange Your Door Side” contest showcased the talent, creativity, and resourcefulness of the Secretariat service groups as they decorated door side panels with themed artwork, symbolizing support for ending violence against women.
GAD Planning and Budgeting (GPB) sessions were also held to enhance the capacity of the Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS) and the Secretariat personnel in integrating gender perspectives into planning and budgeting processes. The GFPS Planning and Budgeting session on October 21 and 22 focused on strategies to ensure that gender equality is embedded in organizational programs and resource allocation. The Secretariat GPB session, held on November 25, emphasized how the Secretariat can contribute to gender-responsive planning and budgeting, ensuring that all activities are aligned with the goal of promoting gender equality.
The Capacity Building and Revalida sessions, held on December 3, served as the culminating GAD activities. The Capacity Building workshop focused on the use of gender-fair language, as discussed during the Orientation on the Supreme Court Stylebook. Meanwhile, the Revalida provided an opportunity to assess challenges, share successes, and ensure that future GAD initiatives continue to promote gender justice and equality. These GAD activities in CY 2024 reflect the organization’s firm commitment to advancing gender equality, eliminating violence, and protecting the rights of all individuals, regardless of gender.