The United Nations (UN) Gender Thematic Group (GTG), in partnership with Senate pro Tempore Loren Legarda and Senator Pia Cayetano, launched on Monday an experiential exhibit dubbed “Walk in Her Shoes” in support of the 18-day campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW).
The exhibit, which will be open to Senate visitors from Dec. 4 to 12, features stories of various sectors of women and girls, highlighting the forms of gender-based violence.
It aims to raise awareness about the pervasiveness of VAW, prompt reflection on the prevailing social norms that reinforce this harmful behavior, and galvanize action to end VAW.
In her message, Legarda admitted that Republic Act 9262 or the Violence Against Women and their Children Act, which is almost two decades old needs review and revisiting.
“I know the UN Population Fund can review it along with the Philippine Commission on Women. Senator Pia and I can put our heads together if you think and we feel that the law needs revision if any. But perhaps more than the revision and revisit of the law is to strengthen people’s understanding,” she said.
Meanwhile, Cayetano cited that one out of three women is a victim of gender-based violence which should call for a heightened awareness campaign.
“So today, we bring attention to these matters in the hope that not just on this day, but the 364 other days of the year, we are conscious of the lives of these women and people who are vulnerable, the challenges that they face, and we can all do our little part in contributing to making their lives better,” she said.
Among the UN GTG members that contributed to the exhibit are UNFPA, UN Women, UNICEF, UN Development Programme (UNDP), International Labour Organization, World Food Programme, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and Food and Agriculture Organization.
After the 18 days campaign, the UN GTG plans to bring the exhibit to different public spaces throughout the Philippines to reach a wider audience and to advocate for joint programs that address VAW. (PNA)
