SC vows continued support to "End VAW"

CEBU, Philippines — In line with the 18-day campaign to End Violence Against Women (End VAW), the Supreme Court (SC) has renewed its call to members of the Judiciary to do their part in this movement.

Through its Committee on Gender Responsiveness in the Judiciary (CGRJ), the SC emphasized how the campaign aligns with the Supreme Court’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027 (SPJI), particularly highlighting the guiding principle of “equal and inclusive justice.”

End VAW is an annual advocacy campaign that runs from November 25 to December 12, as stated in Proclamation 1172, Series of 2006.

It aims to raise public awareness about the various forms and impact of VAW, as well as encourage individuals, communities, and government to work together to create a comprehensive response to VAW with strong focus on prevention.

I also hope to empower VAW survivors by disseminating information on available support services and resources, fostering a society that empowers survivors to seek justice and rebuild their lives.

On SC’s Facebook page, SC Associate Justice Henri Jean Paul Inting, co-chairperson of the CGRJ, addressed court officials and employees, emphasizing the Court’s role in tackling gender-based violence.

Justice Inting highlighted various initiatives, including urging trial courts to prioritize cases involving women and children, alongside other important cases.

He also stressed that the issue does not only concern women but society as a whole, saying, “united efforts are essential to put an end to it.”

While he acknowledged that the Philippines has made significant progress in combating violence against women through laws, policies, and initiatives, he also noted that more work is required and that ongoing support is necessary.

“Through this yearly initiative, we aim to create a society where no woman feels afraid to walk home by herself, where those who have suffered violence receive justice promptly, and where everyone acknowledges that violence is inexcusable and should not be accepted,” said Justice Inting.

He also urged that while the campaign only runs for 18 days, their commitment must persist every day throughout the year.

CGRJ co-chairperson and SC Associate Justice Jhosep Lopez further emphasized the Philippines’ efforts which “has emerged as a beacon of hope for women’s rights in Asia.”

He cited laws protecting women and children, such as Republic Act (R.A.) No. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004 (Anti-VAWC Act) and R.A. 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act.

Justice Lopez also pointed out that the once male-dominated Judiciary is now an institution that promotes diversity and inclusivity, acknowledging the significant role of women justices and judges in shaping the legal landscape.

Lopez also reminded that members of the Judiciary and court employees hold a unique position in society’s effort to end violence against women.

“I wish to remind everyone that the decisions we make and the policies we introduce resonate beyond the courtrooms and have a lasting impact on the attitudes of future generations,” he stressed.

This year’s theme, “UNiTEd for a VAW-Free Philippines,” marks a milestone as the Philippines celebrates the 20th anniversary of the enactment of Republic Act No. 9262, also known as the Anti-VAWC Act.

Further, with the sub-theme “VAW Bigyang Wakas, Ngayon na ang Oras!”, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), which is mandated to lead, coordinate, monitor, and evaluate the nationwide yearly observance of this campaign, is calling for unity among all genders and sectors of society to finally put an end to violence in all its forms.

The 2024 campaign remains aligned with the United Nations’ “UNiTE by 2030 to End VAW” initiative, of which the Philippines is one of the 51 charter members.

PCW said that UNiTE is a multiyear effort that calls on duty-bearers, civil society and non-governmental organizations, the private sector, media entities, the youth, and UN member states to join forces in addressing the global pandemic of violence against women and girls. — (FREEMAN)