The Senate Electoral Tribunal joins the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) which is observed yearly from November 25 to December 12. 

This year’s campaign theme “UNiTED for a VAW-Free Philippines” is a call for everyone to join forces in addressing the global pandemic of violence against women and girls.  The campaign aims to promote awareness on the forms of violence being experienced by women and girls; provide information on laws protecting women and girls; feature VAW-related services that people may access and avail; and gather public support for the campaign.

As a highlight of its participation in this year’s campaign, the Tribunal conducted an activity featuring Assistant Professor Sabrina Laya S. Gacad, Chairperson of the Department of Women and Development Studies, University of the Philippines, Diliman, as lecturer on VAW. She explained the philosophy of feminism and discussed various gender-related concepts, such as power, patriarchy, hegemonic masculinity, and toxic masculinity, among others. She shared valuable insights on gender-based violence and emphasized the importance of being sensitive and respectful of everyone’s human rights, among others.

Divided into several groups, the participants eagerly imparted their learnings and presented their understanding through artistic expressions. The groups’ impressive presentations reflected the depth of their comprehension, with the participants’ talents and creativity shining through.  Indeed, not only did the activity reinforce their awareness of VAW, but most importantly, intensified the employees’ commitment to help stop VAW.