Duterte vows to pursue policies to protect women from violence

FILE: President Rodrigo Roa Duterte at the Shangri-La Hotel in Makati City on September 22, 2019. ALBERT ALCAIN/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday vowed to pursue more measures to protect women and children from harassment or discrimination as he joined the nation in the observance of the National Consciousness Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

In his official message, Duterte recognized how the full implementation of the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 and the Magna Carta of Women has enabled government to help maintain more violence-free homes across the country.

He also expressed hope that the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) would continue to raise public awareness of issues being faced by women and children as it spearheads its 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women and Children.

“I, therefore, acknowledge your agency’s advocacies that strongly uphold the significant role of our social institutions in fighting for the greater empowerment and protection of women and children within their families, communities, and beyond,” Duterte said.

“Let this important socio-political campaign further secure our gains as we continue to work together in building a more inclusive and progressive nation for generations to come,” he added.

Earlier, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador and Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo said protecting the rights of women is among the President’s top priorities.

Last year, Duterte temporarily banned the deployment of overseas Filipino workers in Kuwait to protect female migrant workers from abuse and exploitation.

On Jan. 9, 2017, Duterte signed Executive Order 12, which seeks to attain and sustain “zero unmet need for modern family planning” through the implementation of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act.

He has also given recognition to women of distinction by appointing them to his Cabinet and in other high offices in the government.

Republic Act 10398 declares November 25 of every year as National Consciousness Day For The Elimination Of Violence Against Women And Children.

Meanwhile, Proclamation 1172 s. 2006 declares November 25 to December 12 as the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW)

The campaign is observed annually to raise awareness that VAW is a public issue of national concern.

It supports the government’s goal to protect the human rights of women and its commitment to address all forms of gender-based violence.