The Bacolod City Council has officially thrown its support behind a major initiative to combat gender-based violence, approving a resolution that encourages the entire city government to actively participate in the 2025 18-day campaign to end violence against women (VAW).
City-Wide Mobilization Against VAW
Authored by Councilor Celia Matea Flor, who chairs the committee on women, gender, and family and childcare, the resolution specifically calls on the Office of Mayor Greg Gasataya and all local government offices and barangays to undertake various activities for the campaign. The Philippines observes this annual campaign from November 25 to December 12, as mandated by Proclamation 1172, Series of 2006, with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) leading the national effort.
The campaign aims to raise public awareness, strengthen advocacy, and mobilize every sector of society to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls (VAWG). This aligns with the country's commitments under several key laws and international agreements, including the Anti-VAWC Act (Republic Act No. 9262) and the Magna Carta of Women (Republic Act 9710).
Concrete Actions and Online Advocacy
Councilor Flor outlined several specific actions for city departments and barangays. These include incorporating VAW-related messages and materials, such as the All-Women Cast Lupang Hinirang video and the Prayer to End VAW, into their flag-raising ceremonies throughout the campaign period.
To maximize visibility, government offices and partner institutions are urged to display the official campaign banner in prominent areas. A strong online presence is also encouraged.
All offices are called to support the digital advocacy by:
- Uploading official campaign materials.
- Using the hashtag #VAWfreePH.
- Adopting the official profile frame on social media.
- Sharing PCW-approved digital stickers and content.
Symbolic Gestures and Educational Outreach
Stakeholders are further encouraged to join the #OrangeYourIcon Movement by illuminating public buildings, landmarks, or community spaces in orange. This color serves as a powerful symbol of hope and a collective commitment to ending VAW.
Additionally, city offices may install an Orange Exhibit or similar displays that highlight local programs and achievements in addressing violence against women. To ensure wider reach and cultural sensitivity, updated information and education campaign (IEC) materials from the PCW can be translated into major local languages.
Flor also emphasized the importance of education, suggesting that PCW-produced VAW advocacy videos be shown in offices, public spaces, and on electronic billboards. Departments, barangays, schools, NGOs, and civil society organizations are encouraged to conduct orientations and learning sessions to promote VAW prevention and awareness across the community.
