Through the Pink Lens

In every corner of the world, there are voices that have been silenced by fear, by violence, and by injustice. Yet, these voices, strong and unyielding, refuse to remain unheard. The fight against violence toward women is not just a fight for justice; it is a fight for the very soul of society—a call for dignity, safety, and equality. 

The Philippines, like many nations, is caught in a relentless struggle against the violence that too many women face every day. The 2024 18 -day Campaign to End Violence Against Women reminds us that this is not just an issue of the past, but a current battle that affects one in three women globally. One of the strongest advocates for women’s rights in the Philippines, former Vice President Leni Robredo, has tirelessly fought for women’s empowerment and protection. Her initiatives have focused on elevating the status of women, ensuring their safety, and breaking down the societal barriers that perpetuate violence. Leni Robredo’s work highlights the importance of not just legal frameworks, but also community-based solutions and education to bring about lasting change in the fight against gender-based violence.

The Anti-Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Act of 2004, along with other important laws, seeks to offer women the protection they deserve. But laws alone cannot end violence; they are a tool in a much broader fight—one that requires society to change its perception of women's worth and rights. The VAWC Act is a vital part of this fight, aiming to safeguard women and children from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. By holding perpetrators accountable, it provides a shield of protection for the vulnerable, ensuring that justice will be served and that victims are no longer ignored. Just as a fortress stands strong against invaders, this law stands as a defense against violence, offering hope to those who have suffered in silence. Alongside the VAWC Act, two other laws have made significant strides in protecting women's rights. RA 8353, the Anti-Rape Law of 1997, redefined rape, shifting the focus from the victim's actions to the perpetrator's crime. This law clarifies that rape is not about the victim's dress or behavior, but about the violation of a woman's autonomy and dignity. It ensures that no woman's consent is ever disregarded, and no man who commits such an atrocity will escape the consequences. It is a law that stands as a pillar of justice and a reminder that women control their own bodies. In addition, RA 11313, the Safe Spaces Act, addresses harassment in public and online spaces, which many women face daily. Whether on the street, in the workplace, or on the internet, this law ensures that any act of harassment will be penalized. It acknowledges that women should not live in fear of verbal abuse or physical harassment, even in spaces that are meant to be public and safe for everyone. The Safe Spaces Act is a step toward reclaiming the streets for women, offering a guarantee that their voices, thoughts, and freedom are valued in all spaces. 

The fight against violence toward women is far from over, but with laws like the VAWC Act, the Anti-Rape Law, and the Safe Spaces Act, we are inching closer to a future where women can live freely, without fear of abuse or harassment. These laws are not just legal tools; they are symbols of progress, of society's commitment to change. But the work doesn't end here. Each of us must take responsibility, raising our voices and standing up for equality.The 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women reminds us all of the power of unity in the face of injustice. It is time to work together and ensure that every woman can walk in safety, with her head held high, in every space she occupies. 

REFERENCE: Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and ICF. 2022 Philippine National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS): Key Indicators Report. Quezon City, Philippines, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: PSA and ICF, 2022.

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