Editorial: “A VOW FOR VAW”

Written by: Cristianery Khim B. Guzman

Three decades ago, the United Nations General Assembly released the
Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Hence, every year, on the
25th of November, marks the international day for its cause to eliminate the assaults
against women. It is the time for the society to reflect upon admitting the sobering fact
that many women suffer violence in all of its forms. This day is a potent reminder to
band together, spread awareness, and take concrete steps to end this widespread
problem that taints our society. Despite these events, violence against women continues
to plague our world. Abuses that are physical, sexual, emotional, or psychological are
ways that it can be expressed. No social class, race, nor religion is immune from this
brutality. It can cause a very major impact on all women all around the world, silencing
their voices that hinder their independence, and sustaining an oppressive cycle of
dread.

Gender-based violence especially in women has been a subject of high-profile

incidents in recent years, which has rightfully caused global anger and sparked
discussions and calls for change. Numerous cases of countless unnamed victims who
are still locked up in the shadows that lay beneath the headlines are remained
unsolved.

The United Nations (UN) shows that about 1 in 3 women globally experienced
physical and/or sexual violence, mostly at the hands of an intimate partner that signifies
30% of the women population. In 2017, 3 in 5 women killed by their partners or families.
Even adolescent girls aged 15-19 who have had an intimate relationship has
experienced physical or sexual violence from a partner. These all results that 736 million
women as of this date have suffered assaults that intensified in different setting
including workplaces, schools, online and public spaces, and even their so-called
homes.

In the Philippines, various progress in protecting women against different forms

of harassment including rape and catcalling. Republic Act 9262-the Anti Violence
Against Women and Children Act of 2004- includes some of the toughest provisions
against domestic violence including emotional, psychological, physical, and sexual
assaults. The provisions also states that the victim can be a wife, ex-wife, or her child,
or any women with whom the offender has a relationship with.
 However, the United Nations also said that the tough provisions in the law, there
are still happenings and continuous cases in the country, due to the impunity, silence,
stigma, and shame surrounding it. Even educated, knowledgeable, and financially
independent Filipina women who are aware of the RA 9262 hesitate to report. Women
should be confident in making their lives free and protections can be granted for them
when they behold the truth.

The horrifying years of the Covid-19 pandemic paved way to a greater number of
women violence, harassment, exploitation, and discrimination worldwide. The Philippine
National Police or PNP recorded approximately 16,000 cases of violations against
women at the years of 2021-2022. Understanding violence against women as not just a
symptom, but a deeply noted issue, is crucial. Unequal power dynamics, harmful
cultural norms, and a lack of proper education. Education plays a vital role dismantling
gender stereotypes and prejudices while fostering empathy and respect. It is a tool that
can empower both men and women, young and adult, to open their eyes and narrow
minds and create a future where women can live free from violence, fear and
discrimination.

Moreover, these days, women also suffer from cyber harassment. The world
Health Organization (WHO) reported 29% of Filipino women who seek jobs overseas
may still end up being trafficked for sex or forced labor exploitation. Thirty years have
seen some progress in minimizing violence against women and girls, but much work still
lies ahead.

Commemorating Violence Against Women Day is an opportunity to amplify the

voices of victims and survivors of gender-based violence. It is a day when society
collectively stands in solidarity, acknowledging the pressing need for change. Let this
day ignite a flame of determination within all of humanity and vow to not break women in
any way. A vow that let people strive toward a future where women are cherished,
respected, and protected from all forms of violence. Each step taken towards creating a
safer and more equitable world for women brings people closer to achieving justice,
healing, and ultimately the elimination of Violence Against Women, a Vow for VAW that
shall not be broken.