BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Agriculture–Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) participated in the launch of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) during its flag-raising ceremony on November 25, 2024. The campaign, which runs from November 25 to December 12, aims to unite communities, institutions, and individuals in the collective fight to prevent and combat gender-based violence.
Tetchi Bell Bagnos, who delivered the opening statement, explained the significance of the campaign’s color, orange. She emphasized that the color symbolizes hope for a future free from violence and is a vibrant, optimistic hue meant to inspire action and change.
Bagnos also highlighted that the 18-day campaign is not only about empowering women but also about engaging men. She introduced the Men Opposed to Violence Everywhere (MOVE) Organization, a group of men committed to actively participating in the elimination of violence against women (VAW).
Freidy Sicwaten, reminded the audience about the Safe Spaces Act and clarified that under this law, anyone who feels harassed by actions or words can seek legal recourse. Sicwaten also discussed the critical role of the MOVE Organization in ending violence and emphasized that men have a vital role to play in challenging stereotypes.
“Through men’s involvement, we want to change the stereotype—from being seen as perpetrators to becoming partners in women’s empowerment and gender equality,” Sicwaten said.
Meanwhile, the Regional Gender and Development Council–Cordillera (RGADC-CAR) led the regional launch at the DPS Compound, Baguio City. Director Maria Aplaten of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and Chair of RGADC-CAR opened the event by introducing the regional theme for the campaign: “Cordillera, agbinnadang nga sardengan ti (VAW).”
Aplaten explained that the word “binnadang,” rooted in the region’s cultural heritage, signifies a spirit of unity and mutual aid. She stressed that just as communities rise together to support one another, this same collective effort is essential in the fight against violence.
“Through LOVE—Lead the way, Open our hearts and hands, Value each person’s worth, and Engage as a community—we can create a Cordillera and a Philippines where every woman is safe, respected, and empowered,” Aplaten said. She urged the audience to embrace the spirit of “binnadang” and ensure that no woman or child faces violence.
VAWC survivor and author, Charlyn Fadchal Awing, also spoke at the event, urging victims of violence to break their silence and learn to respect themselves.
“To all the survivors, if you’re wondering how or where to begin, I hope this helps,” Awing said. “Love begins with one act of courage—it could be an honest conversation with a friend, one brave decision to reach out for help, or one small moment of compassion to yourself. For me, that one moment changed everything.”
As the 18-day campaign to end violence against women and children kicks off, the call for collective action has never been more urgent. This campaign serves as a powerful reminder that the fight against gender-based violence requires the commitment of all, every day. As we embark on this vital journey, let us remain dedicated to protecting and empowering women, ensuring that a future free from violence becomes a reality for everyone. By Alyssa Dawn Alalag
