The Philippine Statistics Authority in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PSA-BARMM), Gender and Development (GAD) Team from RSSO and PSO Maguindanao participated the Kick-off Ceremony of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) and the 6th state of the Bangsamoro Women Address (SOBWA) held at Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex, Bangsamoro Government Center, Cotabato City.

The Bangsamoro Women Commission spearheaded the launch of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women, this year's theme being "VAW Bigyang Wakas: Ngayon na ang Oras!" A significant highlight of the event was the 6th State of the Bangsamoro Women Address delivered by the Commission’s Chairperson, Hadja Bainon Karon, who emphasized the progress made in empowering Bangsamoro women and the urgent need to eliminate violence in all forms.

The 18-day campaign to end the VAW will be celebrated from November 25- December 12, 2024 as mandated by Proclamation 1172 s. 2006.  
Established under Republic Act No. 9262, the anti-violence against women and their children act of 2004 aims to tackle significant issues related to violence against women and children (VAWC) perpetrated by intimate partners, which may include husbands, ex-husbands, cohabitants, and boyfriends or girlfriends. The law encompasses various forms of abuse, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic violence. It also emphasizes the rights of women and children to advocate against the violence they encounter.

In addition, the 6th SOBWA presented by BWC Chairperson Hadja Bainon Karon discussed the efforts undertaken to combat violence and abuse within the BARMM community. She emphasized the advancements made in empowering Bangsamoro women and underscored the urgent necessity to eradicate violence in all its manifestations. A key moment of the event was the signing of a memorandum of agreement between the Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission and the Bangsamoro Women Commission, both of which aim to champion the rights of women and children in the BARMM region.  

Moreover, the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW, highlighted by its poignant theme, serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing battle against violence inflicted on women and children, particularly in vulnerable communities. The proactive initiatives discussed in the State of the Bangsamoro Women address reflect a commitment to not only raising awareness but also fostering collaboration between key organizations to protect and empower survivors. Ultimately, these efforts underscore the critical importance of collective action in creating a safer and more equitable society for all.

Approved for Release:

ENGR. AKAN G TULA
OIC-Regional Director

EDFE/MSM/OAG