Unbroken: Rising Together to End Violence Against Women

Violence Against Women (VAW) is not just a statistic—it’s a harsh reality for millions of women worldwide. In the Philippines, nearly 1 in 5 women has endured emotional, physical, or sexual abuse from someone they loved and trusted. These numbers, revealed in the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey, are more than just data; they represent real lives affected, families torn apart, and futures altered forever.

Every year, the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women reminds us of this ongoing struggle. Anchored on Republic Act (R.A.) No. 9262, the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, this campaign highlights the importance of laws designed to protect women and children from abuse. R.A. No. 9262 empowers women to seek justice through protection orders, legal support, and stronger penalties for abusers. It acknowledges that abuse is not just physical—it can also be emotional, sexual, or even economic. This recognition is crucial because so many women suffer in silence, not realizing that their pain matters and that they have rights.

Other laws, such as the Anti-Rape Law of 1997 (R.A. No. 8353) and the Safe Spaces Act of 2019 (R.A. No. 11313), reinforce this fight. The Anti-Rape Law shifted the view of rape from being a crime against chastity to a crime against a person’s dignity, recognizing marital rape and broadening the definition to protect more women. Meanwhile, the Safe Spaces Act ensures that women feel safe not just at home but in public spaces, schools, workplaces, and online. It addresses everyday harassment—catcalling, offensive remarks, or inappropriate online messages—that so many women face but rarely report.

These laws are powerful tools, but they are not enough on their own. Real change requires all of us to stand together. It starts with listening to survivors, educating ourselves, and challenging harmful behaviors or attitudes in our communities.

This National Women’s Month, let us remember that every woman deserves to live free from fear. Each story of abuse silenced is a call for us to speak louder. Together, we can create a society where women and children are safe, respected, and empowered to thrive. Ending violence is not just about laws—it’s about compassion, action, and shared responsibility. Let’s take that stand.