Not many Filipina women are aware that there is a law to protect them from physical or even verbal abuse from men, called the The Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004 (Republic Act No. 9262). Aside from physical abuse, the law also protects women from , psychological or emotional, sexual violence and economic abuse. My friend and senator Pia Cayetano is spearheading a “Say No to Violence” campaign around the country by conducting seminars to women so they are aware of their rights.
1 out of 3 women have been victims of some form of violence. The abuser is usually known to her – a husband, boyfriend, father, brother, relative or some other person in her life.
Violence does not distinguish between economic class, culture or religion. In a World Bank study on selected risk factors facing women between 15-44, rape and domestic violence rated higher than cancer, motor vehicle accidents, war ans facing women in this age group, rape and domestic violence rated higher than cancer, motor vehicle accidents, war and malaria.
The say no to violence is an internet-based campaign initiated by UNIFEM. In today’s meeting, the women parliamentarians committed to join this campaign to put an end to violence in our respective countries.
This is a simple signature campaign. Just visit the website at www.saynotoviolence.org and sign up by adding your name. That simple.
Sign up, learn more about it and spread the word. End violence now. Don’t wait for your sister, daughter or friend to be a victim.
My office conducts seminars around the country. If you need more info, let me know. Drop me a line if you sign up. It will encourage others to do so as well. God bless
