Showing its strong commitment to gender equality and the fight against violence, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) joins the nationwide observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) from November 25 to December 12, 2024.

Carrying this year’s theme, “VAW Bigyang Wakas, Ngayon na ang Oras!”, PCA set activities aimed at promoting awareness, solidarity, and action toward a VAW-free Philippines.

The 18-Day Campaign to End VAW, led by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), aligns with the global UNiTE by 2030 initiative to eliminate violence against women and girls. This year’s observance marked the 20th anniversary of the Anti-VAWC Act of 2004 (RA 9262), a landmark legislation defining violence against women as a severe violation of human rights and a pervasive societal problem.

In the Philippines, the campaign reflects an urgent call to action amid stark realities revealed in the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey: nearly one in five Filipino women have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual violence. Recognizing this alarming statistic, PCA amplified its advocacy by actively engaging its employees, stakeholders, and the broader public in activities designed to inspire collective action.

PCA’s employees prominently displayed their support by wearing orange advocacy shirts, symbolizing hope and solidarity. The agency also disseminated informational materials on gender-based violence across its platforms and prominently displayed campaign banners in its offices, ensuring the campaign’s reach extended to the communities it serves.

PCA leadership underscored the importance of inclusivity and awareness, encouraging employees to embody positive masculinity and to become advocates of anti-VAW efforts.

As the 18-day campaign concludes, the PCA remains steadfast in its resolve to promote respect, safety, and empowerment for all, proving that ending violence against women is not only a fight for women, but a shared responsibility of all Filipinos.

“Ngayon na ang oras!” Let us unite for a VAW-free Philippines.